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sIDS Myths

Any sudden, unexpected death threatens one's sense of safety and security. We are forced to confront our own mortality (Corr, 1991). This is particularly true in a sudden infant death. Quite simply, babies are not supposed to die. Because the death of an infant is a disruption of the natural order, it is traumatic for parents, family, and friends.

​The lack of a discernible cause, the suddenness of the tragedy, and the involvement of the legal system make a SIDS death especially difficult, leaving a great sense of loss and a need for understanding.

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What SIDS is

• The major cause of death in infants from 1 month to 1 year of age, with most deaths occurring between 2 and 4 months
• Sudden and silent--the infant was seemingly healthy
• Currently, unpredictable and unpreventable
• A death that occurs quickly, often associated with sleep and with no signs of suffering
• Determined only after an autopsy, an examination of the death scene, and a review of the clinical history
• Designated as a diagnosis of exclusion
• A recognized medical disorder listed in the International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision (ICD-9)
• An infant death that leaves unanswered questions, causing intense grief for parents and families

What SIDS Is not

• Caused by vomiting and choking, or minor illnesses such as colds or infections
• Caused by the diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus (DPT) vaccines, or other immunizations
• Contagious
• Child abuse
• The cause of every unexpected infant death