There is increasing evidence to show that some babies are more vulnerable to cot death than others and that their vulnerability could be caused in the early stages of foetal development. Therefore, reducing the risks of cot death begins by maintaining the optimum intra-uterine environment throughout pregnancy.

Smoking during pregnancy is believed to be one of the main factors which can increase a baby’s vulnerability to cot death. Therefore, smoking cessation advice and service remain vitally important, during pregnancy.

The use of recreational and non-prescription drugs and/or alcohol may also interfere with normal foetal development and could increase the baby’s vulnerability to cot death. It is important that pregnant women are advised of this risk.

The Scottish Government has recently updated the “Reduce the Risks” leaflet in consultation with the Scottish Cot Death Trust and other stakeholders (which includes RCM, UNICEF Baby Friendly Initiative, Paediatricians, Epidemiologists, Infant Feeding Advisors and parents). This leaflet will be available in the Autumn 2010, and we would urge all midwives and Health Visitors to ensure that the leaflet is given to every new and expectant parent in Scotland.