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FROM SHEKNOWS.COM:

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a scary topic for any expectant parent or parent with an infant. But, what is scariest for most is the fact that the cause of SIDS cannot be determined. Instead of watching over your child every second she’s in sweet slumberland, find out some of the things you can do to lower the risk of SIDS by reading on.

So how do you fight against the leading cause of death in infants in the United States? Before you give in to the urge to set up shifts between the two of you to watch over her as she sleeps (new parents need all the sleep they can get with an infant in the house!), here are some tips to help reduce the risk that your child will fall into the wrong side of the statistics.

1) Back to sleep

Over the years the rules have changed, and pediatricians and the AAP agree that putting a baby on her back to sleep is the safest position for your little princess. Make sure grandparents, babysitters and other care givers are adhering to this life-saving rule! Save tummy time for when she’s awake, which will help strengthen her neck muscles and reduce the risk of SIDS even further.

2) Nothing in the crib except baby

Do not put stuffed animals, pillows, quilts, or soft bumpers in the crib when your sweet pea is sleeping. Using a sleep sack to keep your baby cozy is best, but if you must use a blanket, make sure it’s tucked into the well-fitted crib mattress and does not extend up past her chest.

3) Say no to smoking

Infants exposed to cigarette smoke have a higher risk of SIDS. Do not smoke during pregnancy, or expose your baby to second hand smoke once she’s joined the outside world.

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