What SIDS is
Sudden infant death syndrome is the death of a baby under one year that cannot be explained after a full investigation, most often during sleep between 1 and 4 months. The exact cause is unknown, but decades of research show that specific sleep practices lower the risk substantially.
Six safe-sleep habits
- On the back for every sleep, day and night, until one year. Since the “Back to Sleep” campaign, SIDS rates have fallen by more than half. A baby who rolls independently may be left in the position they choose.
- A flat, firm surface. A firm infant mattress with a tightly fitted sheet. No pillows, bolsters, thick blankets, soft toys or bumpers.
- Same room, not same bed. The cot in the parents’ room for at least the first 6 months. Bed-sharing raises the risk especially with smokers, exhausted parents or soft mattresses.
- Avoid overheating. One layer more than you are wearing is enough. No hats for indoor sleep.
- Smoke-free, before and after birth.
- A pacifier at sleep time once breastfeeding is established (about 3 to 4 weeks) is protective. If it falls out, there is no need to replace it.
About swaddling and sleep sacks
Swaddling is fine while the baby sleeps on the back and must stop as soon as there are signs of rolling (usually 2 to 3 months). A sleeveless sleep sack is a safer blanket replacement.
Breastfeeding and vaccines
Breastfeeding, even partially, lowers SIDS risk. Babies who are fully vaccinated on schedule also have a lower risk, one more reason to follow the schedule in the Tumbuh tab.
This article is general education and does not replace a doctor’s examination. When in doubt, consult a paediatrician.
