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Safe sleeping

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known as "cot death," refers to the sudden and unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby.

While this may sound alarming, SIDS is actually rare, and the risk of your baby experiencing it is low. Most SIDS cases occur within the first 6 months of a baby's life. Premature infants or those with a low birth weight are at higher risk, and SIDS tends to be slightly more common in baby boys. SIDS typically happens when a baby is asleep, although it can occur while they're awake, although this is less common.

The exact cause of SIDS is unknown, but it's believed to be a combination of factors. Experts think SIDS occurs at a specific stage of a baby's development and affects babies who are susceptible to certain environmental stresses. These vulnerabilities can be due to premature birth, low birth weight, or other unidentified reasons. Environmental stresses may include exposure to tobacco smoke, getting tangled in bedding, minor illnesses, or breathing obstructions. Co-sleeping (sharing a bed, sofa, or chair with your baby) has also been associated with SIDS.

Babies who die from SIDS are thought to have difficulties in responding to these stresses and regulating their heart rate, breathing, and temperature. Although the exact cause of SIDS remains unclear.

Preventing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

There are several preventive measures parents can take to reduce the risk of SIDS, such as:

  • Always place your baby on their back to sleep, position your baby "feet to foot," with their feet touching the end of the cot, Moses basket, or pram.
  • Keep your baby's head uncovered, ensuring the blanket is tucked in no higher than their shoulders.
  • Allow your baby to sleep in the same room as you in a cot or moses basket for the first 6 months.
  • Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress that is in good condition.
  • Ensure safe usage of slings or baby carriers.
  • Avoid smoking during pregnancy and ensure no one smokes in the same room as your baby, both before and after birth.
  • Refrain from sleeping on a bed, sofa, or armchair with your baby.
  • Do not share a bed with your baby if you or your partner smoke or take drugs, have recently consumed alcohol, or if your baby was born prematurely or with a weight under 2.5kg.
  • Prevent your baby from getting too hot or too cold; a room temperature of 16°C to 20°C with light bedding or a lightweight baby sleeping bag is ideal.

Make sure the cot is clear

The best place for your baby to sleep is in their own clear, flat sleep space, like a cot or Moses basket, in the same room as you. Here are some important things to keep in mind when setting up your baby's sleep space:

  • Avoid using pillows or duvets.
  • Do not use cot bumpers.
  • Keep soft toys or comforters out of the cot.
  • Avoid using bulky or weighted bedding.
  • Do not use products like wedges or straps designed to keep your baby in one sleeping position.
  • Avoid using pods, nests, rolled up towels, or any soft items on top of the mattress.

There is evidence suggesting that covering a baby's head or adding items to the cot can increase the risk of SIDS. Unnecessary items in the cot, such as cot bumpers and toys can also increase the risk of accidents. It is safest to keep the cot clear. Further information and resources can be found on The Lullaby Trust Website.

If your baby falls ill, it is generally not a cause for major concern. Ensure they drink plenty of fluids and avoid overheating.

If you have any worries about your baby's health, speak to your GP or call NHS 111 Wales for advice. In emergency situations, dial 999 for an ambulance if your baby stops breathing, turns blue, struggles to breathe, loses consciousness, fails to wake up, or has a seizure for the first time.

Support services are available for families in cases of sudden and unexpected infant death. Many find solace in connecting with others who have experienced similar losses. The Lullaby Trust offers guidance and support to bereaved families, with trained advisors available on.

Further information and sources:

  • NHS 111 Wales - Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) advice. 
  • The Lullaby Trust - Safer sleep for babies and support for families.

  • Sands - Saving babies’ lives and supporting bereaved families.