Safe Sleep

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing your baby on their back when sleeping to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

Put your baby to sleep in ways that may protect them from choking and suffocation. Help reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), the unexplained death of a baby younger than 1 year old that usually happens when sleeping.

Alone, on their Back, and in a Crib

At Woman's Hospital, one of our highest priorities is that parents have the appropriate knowledge to ensure their baby has a safe sleeping environment. Watch this video for more information on the ABC's of Safe Sleep.

Always place babies to sleep on their backs during naps and at nighttime. Babies should not be placed on their stomachs or sides to sleep. There are some exceptions to this recommendation:

  • Those prematurely born.
  • Those with excessive spitting up or vomiting.
  • Others, as directed by a pediatrician.

If you have questions about sleeping positions, discuss them with your pediatrician or family physician.

    The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals, Bureau of Family Health, named Woman's Hospital a “Safe Sleep Champion” for its efforts in reducing the rate of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

    • Do not share the bed with your baby. He should not sleep in an adult bed, on a couch or on a chair alone, with you or with anyone else.
    • Do not use wedges or positioners.
    • Keep the bedroom temperature comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.
    • Use a firm sleep surface, such as a mattress in a safety-approved crib, covered by a fitted sheet.
    • Do not use pillows, blankets, sheepskins or crib bumpers anywhere in your baby’s sleep area.
    • Keep soft objects, toys and loose bedding out of your baby’s sleep area.
    • Do not smoke or let anyone smoke around your baby.
    • Make sure nothing covers your baby’s head.
    • Always place your baby on his back to sleep, for naps and at night.
    • Dress your baby in light sleep clothing, such as a one-piece sleeper, and do not use a blanket.

    Give Your Baby Space! website

    Woman’s Life Among Women Blog » features East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner’s advice on preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome with a few simple sleeping arrangement modifications.

    For more information on crib safety guidelines, contact the Consumer Product Safety Commission at 1-800-638-2772.

    About SIDS and the Safe to Sleep® campaign. Safe to Sleep® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.