Is there any medical risk from using a secondhand car seat?

Question

Hello doctor,

My daughter who is 15 months old now had a used car seat up to age one. My sister gave me the car seat and it was used by her six year old daughter when she was a baby. When I went to buy a car seat recently, I realized that the newer models of the car seat I had used were much softer and more padded than the one I had used which was a bit worn from use and quite hard. I am worried that the hard car seat could have caused harm to my baby either now or in the future. Could it have harmed her cells? Is this medically possible? I have postnatal anxiety and my main worry is the hard car seat and regret that I did not buy a new one.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

In my opinion, it may not have caused any harm, as far as your daughter is walking well, no gait issue, and no complains of pain over hip joints. Kids cells have higher regeneration power compared to adults. Theoretically, one can take a biopsy of a particular site and see under the microscope for any change, but in my opinion, it will be useless, and practically does not add value to the outcome. I will suggest, focus on involving her in a safe sports activity where hip mobility can be ensured. Do not blame yourself. You and your sister did it in good faith. The baby will be alright. I would be happy to hear after six months on how she is doing.

I wish her great health.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I think you are thinking too extreme and negative.

Do not worry, but, yes, if you feel so, you can send me, local parts images. The only thing, in my opinion, you will able to notice a pressure effect. But I am pretty sure you may not. If you still feel anxious, you can do a local part ultrasound. Do not ever think of doing a biopsy. It is too theoretical. Does she have any complaints or you notice any finding? If no, then I am pretty sure, she will be absolutely normal.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I am pretty sure there is no cancer risk at all in near future. As per recent medical evidence, there is no such association as sitting on hard surfaces could lead to cancer. So, do not worry. I would surely like to hear from you about your daughter's health in the near future.