Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is also known as "Cot Death". It is the name given to the sudden death of an infant or child which is unexpected by history and in which a thorough post mortem examination fails to demonstrate an adequate cause of death. In other words, it is not known why these babies die. The average incidence of SIDS in Australia is now about one in a thousand live births - around 250 babies each year. This is a major improvement since 1990 when one in five hundred babies died of SIDS. Recent research has shown that the risk of SIDS has been at least halved in many countries by changing some child care practices as follows.

Put your baby on the back to sleep - The best position for babies to sleep in is on their backs. Make sure your baby's head remains uncovered during sleep - If a baby's head becomes covered during sleep the risk of SIDS is increased. Loose bedding can cover your baby's head. Quilts, doonas, duvets, pillows, soft toys and cot bumpers should not be placed where your baby sleeps during the first year. Keep your baby smokefree, before birth and after - The risk of SIDS is increased if the mother smokes during pregnancy.

For more detailed information visit the SIDS site on www.sidsaustralia.org.au

Print view