Is it safe to hold a baby in a baby sling?
Answers from Jay L. Hoecker, M.D.A baby sling — a one-shouldered baby carrier made of soft fabric — can be a safe way to carry a baby, if you follow safety guidelines. When used incorrectly, however, a baby sling can pose a suffocation hazard to an infant younger than age 4 months.
Babies have relatively weak neck muscles and can't control their heads during the first few months after birth. If the baby sling's fabric or your body presses against a baby's nose and mouth, the baby might not be able to breathe. This can quickly lead to suffocation. A baby sling can also keep a baby curled in a C shape, which increases the risk of breathing problems.
A baby is at higher risk of suffocating in a baby sling if he or she was born prematurely or with a low birth weight or has breathing problems, such as a cold. If your baby meets one of these conditions, don't use a baby sling until you talk to your baby's doctor.
If you use a baby sling:
- Read the instructions. Double-check the baby sling's weight minimum before placing your newborn in it.
- Keep your baby's airways unobstructed. Make sure your baby's face isn't covered by the baby sling or your body and is visible to you at all times.
- Be careful after breast-feeding. If you breast-feed your baby in a baby sling, make sure you change your baby's position afterward so that his or her head is facing up and is clear of the baby sling and your body.
- Take caution when bending. Bend at the knees, rather than at the waist, if you pick up something while holding your baby in a baby sling. This will help keep your baby settled securely in the sling.
- Check your baby frequently. Make sure he or she is in a safe position.
- Keep an eye out for wear and tear. Repair any rips or tears in the sling's seams and fasteners.
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- Book: Mayo Clinic Guide to Your Baby’s First Year
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