Get Regular Prenatal Care and Avoid Substance Use During Pregnancy and After Giving Birth

There’s strong evidence that routine prenatal care reduces your baby’s risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). You should also avoid alcohol, marijuana, opioids or illicit drugs during pregnancy and after your baby is born. The risk of SIDS is higher when babies are exposed to alcohol or illicit substances.

Don’t smoke or use nicotine during pregnancy or after your baby is born.

• Smoking while you’re pregnant and smoking in your baby’s environment after birth are significant risk factors for SIDS.
• Don’t smoke anywhere near your baby, even if you’re outside. This includes vaping and electronic cigarettes, which contain nicotine.
• Get rid of secondhand smoke in areas your baby and other nonsmokers spend time in.
• If you’re a smoker or you smoked during pregnancy, remember that it’s especially important that you don’t share your bed with your baby. The risk of SIDS is especially high, even when the smoker doesn’t smoke in bed.

Regular check-ups with your pediatrician help ensure your baby’s growth and development are on track. In addition, your baby will receive important immunizations at these well-child visits. Evidence suggests that infant vaccinations may help protect against SIDS.

To learn more about how to keep your baby safe, see “Tummy Time, Swaddling, and Safe Baby Products.”