While SIDS is rare, it can still happen and there are steps you can take to help reduce the risk to your baby.
The safest place for your baby to sleep night and day is in a separate cot or moses basket in the same room as you for the first 6 months.
The best mattress for your baby is a firm and flat one, protected by a waterproof cover.
Ensure your babies head is not covered, place baby with feet at the end of the cot. Keep cot clear of any items such as bumpers, toys and loose bedding
Always put baby on their back for every sleep. When older and they can turn themselves over it is fine if they move about.
Ensure your babies room is a comfortable temperature, between 16 - 20 Celsius, 60.8 - 68 Fahrenheit is advisable.
Breastfeeding lowers the risk of SIDS, if you can do it for the first 2 months the risk of SIDS is halved. The longer you can do it the greater the protection it will give to your baby.
Do not smoke or take drugs around your baby or allow anyone else too. This is particularly vital is you co-sleep. Not smoking while pregnant or being around others who do is also very important, this can reduce the risk by 60%.
Don't sleep on an armchair or sofa with your baby, this increases the risk by 50 times.
Some research has suggested that using a dummy when putting baby down to sleep can reduce the risk of SIDS, but it is advised you wait until breastfeeding is established.
Co-sleeping is not advised and can be partially dangerous if you or your partner smokes, drinks alcohol, takes drugs (including medication that makes you drowsy) or are extremely tired. Your baby being premature or of low birth weight also increases the risk.
For more information visit - https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/
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