Researching slings and baby carrier safety

Sophie Lovell-Kennedy and Dr Rebecca Strong at Durham Infancy and Sleep Centre (DISC), Durham University, are investigating the safety of slings and baby carriers. The Lullaby Trust jointly funds this research with Teddy's Wish. We caught up with the team to ask about how the research was going.

Two researchers are pictured next to one another, both women and both stood proudly. Behind them are pull up banners relating to SIDs and SUDI, and in front of them is a table full of useful information on their research projects.
A baby is in a baby carrier attached to their dad's chest. They are looking around. It is a safer position for baby as their airway is clear and dad could kiss baby's head if he tried.

Can you tell us what your research project entails?

Rebecca: “This research project is all about exploring and developing information that parents need surrounding baby slings, baby carriers and their safety. The first part of the project is undertaking a systematic review of all of the currently published literature, exploring potential risks associated with adult-worn slings and baby carriers.” 

“The second section of the project is understanding how parents use slings and baby carriers, and assess their awareness of using them safely. Though the safest sleeping position for a baby is on their back, on a firm, flat surface, we know that during the day, babies do sleep in slings or carriers. Parents therefore need guidance about how to make sure they are using baby slings and baby carriers as safely as possible.”

What kind of risks could be associated with baby slings and baby carriers? 

Sophie: “One of the risks is suffocation (positional asphyxia). This is when the baby gets into position or posture where they can’t breathe normally. Babies can’t get back to a safer position, because they don’t have strong neck control.” 

“Another risk is hip dysplasia, where the baby’s hips grow abnormally. Though baby slings and carriers do not cause hip dysplasia, not all slings and carriers encourage healthy hip development as not all carriers position babies hips in a hip-healthy way.” 

An illustrated baby sleeping in a baby sling on their dad. Their dad is looking down at them.

What do you hope the outcome of this project will be?

Sophie: “The advice that currently exists for parents isn’t good enough. But charities like The Lullaby Trust need robust evidence to be able to create new guidance and information for parents and carers. The reason we’re doing this research is to make sure the guidance that exists for parents is as strong as it can be, so that The Lullaby Trust can raise awareness and save lives.” 

Research project details

A baby is laid on a changing mat. Their mum is kissing their cheek, and the baby is looking directly at the camera, smiling with their hand in their mouth. They have blue eyes, light skin and hair and a hearing aid in their right ear.

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