Childbirth charities are urging parents not to breastfeed or bottle-feed hands-free while using a baby sling due to safety risks, particularly for premature babies and infants under four months old. The warning follows an inquest into the death of six-week-old Jimmy Alderman, who died after being breastfed in a sling in October 2023.
The coroner’s report revealed that Jimmy was positioned too low in the sling, which led to suffocation. Despite efforts to resuscitate him, he passed away three days later. In response, the National Childbirth Trust (NCT) and the Lullaby Trust updated their guidance, advising against hands-free feeding for babies under four months or those with health conditions.
The NCT emphasizes that babies in slings may struggle to lift their heads, leading to blocked airways. It also warns that improperly fitted slings can cause head injuries. The charity recommends that slings be tight enough to keep babies close, positioned for visibility, and adjusted for safety.
The Lullaby Trust also revised its advice, now recommending that parents remove babies from slings to feed. They are funding research to improve safety guidance for baby slings and carriers. The NHS advises parents not to let the sling cover the baby’s head to avoid suffocation.
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