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03/15/2010
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is advising parents and caregivers to be cautious when using infant slings for babies younger than four months of age. Over the past 20 years, the CPSC has identified at least 14 deaths associated with sling-style infant carriers, including three in 2009. Twelve of the deaths involved babies younger than four months of age.

Due to lack of head control and weak neck muscles the sling’s fabric can press against an infant’s nose and mouth, resulting in suffocation within a few minutes. Airway restriction can also result from bending the chin toward the chest, limiting the oxygen supply.

Complications from being a low birth weight twin, prematurity or underlying illness may also have been factors in infant mortality. The CPSC urges parents of preemies, twins, babies in fragile health and those with low weight to use extra care and consult their pediatricians about using slings. When using a sling, make sure the infant’s face is not covered and is visible at all times. If nursing the baby in a sling, change the baby’s position after feeding so the baby’s head is facing up and is clear of the sling and the mother’s body. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant about frequently checking their baby in a sling.

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