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What We Know About SIDS and Safe Sleep

Date: 10/17/22

If you’re a parent or a parent-to-be, you’ve most likely heard about Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID). It is a leading cause of death in infants. This includes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), which is the accidental suffocation during sleep time.

You may have also heard about a recent Australian study claiming a link between a possible biomarker -- or a medical sign -- and SIDS. While research into SIDS is good, the study does not explain how to stop SIDS. There is no way to have your child tested for the named biomarker.

We know the data is confusing. Know that it’s still vital to follow the proven safe sleep habits. Doing so is the best way to keep your child safe during their first year of life, even with this new data.

WHAT WE DO KNOW ABOUT SIDS:

  • SUID is the third leading cause of death for infants in Indiana. It is the second leading cause of death for Black infants in the state.
  • SIDS is actually very rare. Most of the time, when a baby dies in their sleep, it happens because something interferes with a baby’s ability to breathe normally. This can happen when a baby sleeps on their stomach, sleeps with an adult, sleeps in an environment with blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals, or sleeps in a swing or rocking device that keeps the baby at an angle. 
  • To reduce the risk of an infant dying during sleep, it is vital to create a safe sleep environment where the baby sleeps alone, on their back, and in a crib without any soft objects, blankets, pillows, or toys.

TIPS FOR A SAFE SLEEPING ENVIRONMENT:

  • Place the baby on their back for sleep at night and for naps.
  • Use a flat, firm sleep surface in a safety-approved crib covered only by a fitted sheet.
  • Do not let the baby sleep in an adult bed, on a couch, or on a chair alone.
  • Do not let the baby sleep next to anyone else.
  • Keep the baby’s sleep area in the same room as the adults until 6 months to one year of age.
  • Keep soft bedding items and soft toys out of the baby’s sleeping area.
  • Do not cover the baby’s head or allow the baby to get too hot.
  • Do not smoke or let anyone smoke around the baby.
  • Keep your baby up to date on their vaccinations and doctor’s visits. This goes for prenatal care, as well.

Remember, MHS members have access to the tools below:

  • Start Smart for Your Baby® Program: This course is full of tips and tools to help you, your new baby, and your family get off to a great start. To take part in this program, contact us at the number on the back of your ID card. Or log in to your member account to complete a Notification of Pregnancy. You can also view a handy list of resources HERE.
  • Your Guide to Life After Delivery: This booklet has helpful information about breastfeeding, the first few weeks at home, your body after delivery, and so much more.

Feel free to save this page to come back to later. Or share these tips with parents of infants. As we know, most SUID is preventable if you follow the above information.

To learn more about SIDS and safe sleep habits, see here: https://www.in.gov/health/cfr/safe-sleep/safe-sleep-program/



Last Updated: 10/17/2022