Pregnancy & Prenatal Health
A healthy pregnancy lays the foundation for a healthy baby. Early care and healthy choices can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Early and Regular Prenatal Care
Seeing a healthcare provider early helps identify risks and manage conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
Nutrition & Diet During Pregnancy
Eating healthy helps prevent preterm birth and low birth weight.
Healthy Behaviors
Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and drugs lowers the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
Managing Stress & Mental Health
Emotional health during pregnancy matters for both mom and baby.
Safe Sleep Saves Lives
Reducing the Risk of Sleep-Related Infant Death
Sleep-related deaths are one of the leading causes of infant mortality—and they are largely preventable.
Sleep-related deaths (SIDS and SUID) are the third-leading cause of death for Mississippi infants. Fortunately, parents and caregivers can take steps to reduce the risk of sleep-related deaths. The Mississippi State Department of Health offers counseling, referral and training on prevention of sleep-related deaths and helping those affected by SIDS and SUID.
About Suid/SIDS
- Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) is the death of a infant less than one year of age that occurs suddenly and unexpectedly and whose cause of death is not immediately obvious prior to investigation.
- Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden death of an infant less than one year of age that remains unexplained after complete investigation, which includes an autopsy, examination of the death scene and review of the symptoms or illness the baby had before dying. Mississippi Facts
Mississippi Facts
- SIDS/SUIDS is the third leading cause of death for infants in Mississippi.
- Babies are more likely to die of SUID/SIDS when they sleep on their stomachs.
- About one in five SUID/SIDS deaths occur while an infant is being cared for by someone other than a parent.
- Between 2022 and 2024, 86 Mississippi infants died from SIDS/SUID.
Healthy Babies Through the First Year
The first year of life is a time of rapid growth—and continued protection.
Well-Baby Visits & Infant Screenings
Regular checkups help catch problems early.
Learn About Well-Baby Visits & Infant Screenings
Breastfeeding & Nutrition Support
Proper nutrition strengthens immunity and development.
Breastfeeding: The Best Start in Life
Child Passenger Safety
Car crashes are a leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 13. Car seats and boosters provide protection for infants and children in a crash.
Learn How to Choose and Use the Right Car Seat Correctly
Child Safety Checklist
One of the biggest jobs parents face is keeping their child safe. Understanding the risks children encounter, thinking ahead, keeping a close watch, and teaching kids effectively are all essential steps in creating a safe and caring environment.
Learn How to Keep Your Family Safe From Serious Harm