American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM) Practice Exam 2026 - Free ABFM Practice Questions and Study Guide

Bed sharing with parents significantly contributes to a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This practice can increase the likelihood of the baby suffocating or being wedged between mattresses or bedding, making it unsafe. Additionally, when a baby shares a bed with adults, the risk of the adult rolling over onto the infant is heightened, further increasing the risk of unintended harm during sleep.

In contrast, placing a baby on their back for sleep, sleeping in a crib alone, and the use of a pacifier during sleep are all recommended practices aimed at reducing the risk of SIDS. Babies sleeping on their backs is one of the most significant protective factors against SIDS, as this position has been shown to decrease the chances of airway obstruction. Similarly, sleeping in a crib alone is considered safe because it provides a controlled and secure environment that minimizes risks associated with co-sleeping. The use of pacifiers has been associated with a reduced risk of SIDS, potentially due to the way they help maintain an open airway and may promote a more stable sleep state for infants.