It's just not possible to spoil an infant by holding them too much, says the AAP. Since baby wearing can reduce crying, that means less stress for everyone. Typically a one-shouldered baby carrier made of soft fabric can be a safe way to carry a baby, if you follow safety guidelines. But a baby sling can pose a suffocation hazard to an infant, particularly those younger than age 4 months. Providing that you are using your wrap, sling or carrier correctly and safely, then it is also safe for your baby to nap whilst being carried. In fact, research has shown that contact with their parent can help a newborn baby to sleep more quietly and for longer.
Studies have shown that babies who are carried cry less. Carrying a baby for at least 3 hours per day has been shown to reduce crying. You can carry yor baby as long as you both want. If baby is in a carrier that supports healthy positioning, you can continue to wear her for as long during the day as you are both comfortable, and up until baby hits the weight limit (which is often around 40 lb!) Experts say it can help make breastfeeding easier, reduce crying, and build a better bond between you and your baby, all while leaving you (mostly) hands-free to do other things. If you choose to babywear in a wrap, here's how to keep your baby safe.
Which is better, baby wraps or carriers? This comes down to personal preference, comfort, and the age and size of your baby. Wraps can be more difficult to put on, but offer a firm, close hold ideal for newborns. Carriers are often more bulky and harder to store, but offer structure for older and more active babies. If your baby is born without any health complications and is around 8lbs, you may begin wearing a baby safely and securely in a wrap carrier.
To choose a baby wrap, think about how much back and shoulder support you'll need. If you plan on wearing your baby for hours at a time, look for padded shoulder straps and lumbar support. Fit: Some carriers can easily adjust to different caregiver's bodies while others need to be perfectly sized to one individual. But you may have noticed that even though it's good for your baby, he may not be a huge fan of tummy-time. It's a serious workout.
This is where Hands-Free Breastfeeding comes in. The ability to feed baby and accomplish another task at the same time (talk on the phone, type, cook or care for another baby) can offer breastfeeding mothers the needed support they will require at some point during their nursing career. At home, try breastfeeding in front of a mirror to see how it looks. Practice without a cover, with a cover, in a sling, etc. You can work on getting into a comfortable position and getting your baby latched on quickly and discreetly before you venture out in public.
You shouldn't sleep while babywearing. Dr. Gina Posner, a pediatrician in California, notes that it's not safe to sleep while your baby sleeps in a carrier. She said, “The problem with sleeping with your baby while wearing [them] is that their head can drop and constrict their breathing.
With practice, you can even breastfeed your baby in most slings or wraps and the fabric of the baby carrier will cover the baby and your breast. You can even walk around while breastfeeding!