Infant Safe Sleep

In 2022, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), updated recommendations for reducing the risk of all sleep-related infant deaths up to one year of age.

A safe sleep environment lowers the risk of all sleep-related infant deaths. Here are some ways you can help create a safe sleep environment.

• Put your baby on their back for all naps & at night
• Use a firm, flat sleep surface- A firm surface means that it shouldn't indent when your baby is lying on it. Any surface that inclines more than 10 degrees isn't safe for your baby to sleep on.
• Never sleep with your baby- This includes twins and other multiples.
• Instead of bed sharing, room share with your baby - This means keeping your baby's sleep area in the same room where you sleep for at least the first 6 months.
• Keep soft objects & loose bedding out of your baby's sleep area - These objects can increase your baby's risk of entrapment, suffocation or strangulation. This includes pillows and pillow-like toys, quilts, comforters, mattress toppers, non-fitted sheets, blankets, toys, bumper pads or related products that attach to crib slats or sides.
• Don't let your baby get overheated - Your baby only needs one more layer than you would wear in the same environment to be comfortable.

Other ways to lower SIDS risk

• Feed your baby breast milk - The longer you give your baby breast milk, the more protection it gives.
• Try giving your baby a pacifier at nap time and bedtime
  • If your baby is breastfed, wait until breastfeeding is established
  • It's OK if your baby doesn't want a pacifier.
  • Don't hang a pacifier around your baby's neck or attach it to their clothing when they're sleeping.
• Make sure your baby has tummy time while awake every day
• Get regular prenatal care & avoid substance use during pregnancy
• Don't smoke or use nicotine during pregnancy or after your baby is born
• Schedule and go to all well-child care visits
• Swaddle your baby if you like
• Be cautious when buying certain products
  • Avoid baby products that aren't consistent with safe sleep recommendations.
  • Don't use home cardiorespiratory monitors as a way to reduce the risk of SIDS.

Remember

Don't hesitate to talk with your pediatrician if you have any questions or concerns about the safety of your baby's sleep environment