Earth Babies Blog

Archive for July, 2010

This is the story of the birth of my precious baby – Michael Albert Cross,
born on 29 July 2006

I found out that I was pregnant on 2 January 2006. My due date was 8 September 2006. I had a lovely (textbook-like) pregnancy and the baby was growing very nicely, although a bit big – but that I would only worry about later.

On Wednesday, 26 July, I woke up the morning with contractions. Not being sure if they were false ones or not I started timing them and sure enough they were regular, meaning it was the real thing! This concerned me as I was only 33 weeks pregnant. I went off to the hospital and was admitted with premature labour, which my gynae (tried to stop. After some drugs for the pain and others to stop the contractions I made myself at home for a bit of a hospital stay.

I remained in the hospital for 2 nights and was discharged on Friday, 28 July with some medication for in case the contractions started up again and told to take things easy (mild bedrest). All was well until 5am the next morning (29 July) when the contractions started up again. I got up and did some washing and packed a bag for myself and the baby, just incase – instinct must have taken over then – had some of the medication to stop the contractions and waited to see what would happen. By 7am I was in a lot of pain so I woke my husband up and we all (my eldest child too) made our way to the hospital again. I got to the hospital at about 8am and was told that I was indeed in labour again and that the doctor would be called. Unfortunately my gynae was not available as it was his weekend off, so I was introduced to the on duty doctor. He examined me and told me I was already 5cm dilated and therefore they would not be able to stop the labour process and that the baby would be born that day. As you can imagine, I was in a lot of shock (and pain) and had to quickly mentally prepare myself for this as it was really the last thing I had expected!

We called the parents and my mom (who happened to be in town) came over to the hospital. We also called my husband’s mom to come fetch our other child, who was still with us at that stage (terrorizing the people and the poor fish in reception, but luckily I was the only patient there that day).

After being prepped, I was moved into the labour suite. Things started to get a bit hectic then and pain-wise I was not doing too well and the baby was lying posteriorly, making labour a bit worse than anticipated. I asked for an epidural as pain relief at about 10am and the anesthetist arrived shortly before 12pm to come do the procedure. It was quite quick and painless with the only challenge being to sit perfectly still during a contraction for him to work on the spine. The epidural kicked in quite quickly and the midwife did a sweep of the membranes and my waters broke at 12h25.

Before I knew it, I was 10cm dilated and was told to hang on for the doctor before starting the next phase of labour. The gynae arrived just in time and about 10 minutes later Michael Albert Cross made his appearance at 13h35! HE screamed when he was born and wee’ed all over the nurses. He had an apgar score of 8/10 and 9/10 and I managed to hold him for a few minutes before the paediatrician took him off to the NICU. He was fine with the birth, weighing in at 2.39kg. He only needed a little bit of oxygen, which they administered by holding a tube close to his nose and mouth.

Michael spent 11 days in the NICU before coming home

Gestational age when born 34 weeks
Weight when born 2.39kg
Reason for premature birth (eg. Pre-term labour, pre-eclampisia, placenta praevia etc) Pre-term labour (I had a bladder infection)
Baby’s age & weight at time of writing 23 months (June 2008); 13kg

My role is not central to the birth but more as a background support to the key players so that they can each focus their energies where they are most needed at any given time.

1. What is a doula?
A doula is a trained, non-medical, birth support person (labour companion). Her function is to provide emotional and informed-choice support to the parents before, during and after the birth. The focus of the doula falls on the mother’s emotional and physical needs, wants and best interests. Her aim is to help the mother (as far as possible) achieve her ‘ideal birth’ as opposed to the ideas held by those present (doula included).
The doula’s support complements the medical care-giver and assists a birth partner in participating with confidence.

2. Why would you need a midwife/doctor and a doula?

says gail J Dahl. “Many women think their doctor will be there for them throughout labor only to discover it’s just them and their partner in the room for most of the time.”

Though a midwife’s approach is holistic care, their main function at a birth is as your medical caregiver and as such there is always a stage in a birth where their focus out of necessity becomes clinical in nature and the emotional needs of the mother become secondary. The doula’s function does not change – her focus remains the mother’s needs and through assisting the birth partner in how best to support the mother, allows the mother to focus on birthing her baby.

3. Does it really help having a doula?
It has been observed that the support of a doula has a positive impact on a woman’s ability to cope in labour as well as her feelings about the birth experience afterwards. Mothers with doula support are less inclined to feel overwhelmed and panicked. This reduces the requests for medicated pain relief, epidurals and the number of caesareans.
Results from 6 different studies of doula assisted births have been observed that due to better birthing positions and less stress hormones produced by calmer women in labour, there is a:

• 50% reduction in the caesarean rate
• 25% shorter labour (due to better birthing positions and less stress hormones produced by calmer women in labour)
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 40% reduction in oxytocin use
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery
Information was obtained from Mothering the Mother: How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter Easier and Healthier Birth, Klaus, Kennell, and Klaus (1993).

4. How do doulas practice?
In South Africa doulas practice privately and are hired by the birth parents.
Depending on how they structure their package and what extras are provided their costs range from R1500 to R3000 (this will invariably cover 1-2 visits prior to the birth, the birth itself, the settling period after the birth and 1-2 post natal visit).

5. Does a doula replace nursing staff?
No. As indicated the doula’s function is non-medical, though they do assist the staff in terms of taking care of the mothers needs as the doula’s presence at the birth is consistent throughout the birth and they only have one person to care for -whereas medical staff are not present the entire duration, their attention is shared by others on the ward and staff is subject to shift changes.

6. Does a doula make decisions on my behalf?
No – she purely carries out your wishes.

7. Will a doula make my partner feel unnecessary?
No, as said she assists your birth partner in being actively and effectively involved, so on the contrary most birth partners feel that the doula made them feel more comfortable and attending the birth.

8. What do Doula’s do?
• A doula is the only carer who is with the mother consistently for the duration of labour, the birth and till everyone is settled and resting after the birth

• Gives both emotional and physical support and comfort in coping with each contraction through various means such as: words of encouragement, keeping those present quiet through the contractions, touch, massage, aromatherapy, counterpressure, movement, praise and reassurance.

• She guides on position changes, how to relax, prepares and guides the mother through the different phases of labour by keeping her informed of what is happening.

• The doula can assist and guide in the writing of a birth plan, explain procedures and help parents to make informed decisions and assist in realising the birth plan as far as possible – with this as a guide she acts as the voice for the parents with the medical staff and advocates their birth requirements.

• Doulas are informed on all phases of labour and birth and are able to prepare parents through explaining what to expect.

• Doulas assists the birth partner in how to be supportive to the mother and by taking care of more trivial things can free the partner up to concentrate on the birth mother (or by being there to support the mother can give the partner a breather).

• She is able to take pictures at the labour and birth (though it is not practical for the doula to be both the carer and the official photographer).

• The doula is trained to assist with post natal care for the mother and child and provide basic support in the successful initiation of breastfeeding.

9. What is most important to consider when choosing a doula?

Regardless of whether you’re choosing a doctor or midwife, you need to look at personality. “If you feel you’re not being respected by your caregiver, then that is not the caregiver for you,” says Gail L Dahl. “And you can switch to someone new right up to the time you give birth.”

You need to feel that she respects your wants and needs for the birth and does not try to instil her own on you. She is not your medical caregiver (you have chosen that person in the role of your obstetrician or midwife) and will not be attending the birth on her own or making medical decisions on your behalf– above all else you need to feel able to rely on her for support, so connecting with her as a person is important.

10. How can I find a doula in my area?
There are various listing services on the net.
DOSA www.doula.org.za
The Village www.doulas.co.za
Sacred Space www.doulatraining.co.za
WOMBS www.wombs.org.za

Birth Plan Generator

other posts on this topic
Birth Story Friday – Gabriel’s Birth – doula perspective
Women who birth

Mel creates adorable, personalised dummy chains. These can be plain (no words), have your babies name on it or any word you choose.
They make a stunning and unique baby shower gift.

* Huge range of non toxic wooden beads and themes to choose from.

visit Mel’s facebook page in order to see some individual photo examples of her dummy chains.

To win 2 Dummy chains by Mel simply comment below before 24 August 2010

Suggestion: Follow us on Facebook; Twitter or add us to your Reader so you can keep track of future posts and upcoming giveaways (you dont want to miss them!).

*South Africa only

I wrote an article for Parent 24 this week on my daughter being present at her brother’s birth. I know it is a very personal choice that each family has to make for themselves but for us it worked and it was wonderful to share the time with her. There are some tips for those thinking about including a child in the birth process

http://www.parent24.com/Baby/birth/My-daughter-was-at-her-brothers-birth-20100727

Did your children witness a sibling birth?

Was such an unbelievable experience, I had thought that as a doula I did not want to do births and only post-natal care but I think I may have found an addiction. WOW

Mom has been in pre-labour for over a week, I had been to see her in last week where she was convinced baby would come that night but I could see she was not actually in labour. Shame they did not know when she conceived so according to what they thought she went 17 days overdue but since baby, placenta etc was all strong and healthy they gave the benefit of the doubt to them being wrong about the dates. I could totally understand where she was in that you so desperately want the baby to be born that you are convinced labour has started even when it has not.

On Sunday early morning she gave me a call at about 2 am to say she was definitely in labour contractions being 4 minutes apart but she would let me know when I should come. The midwife had also let me know that if nothing happened they would have to induce Sunday 8.30am as the mom was getting very tired and worn down in the wait. So I headed over at about 7, she was very focused on having baby that day. Labour was still not really established, contractions had eased off again. Midwife did an internal and to the poor moms disappointment she had only dilated 1cm the whole week – she was now 4cm dilated and baby was not engaged against the cervix. She had thought she would be closer to 8 by then. She did not want to induce as she very much wanted a natural labour so the midwife agreed to allow till that afternoon. We stayed with her a while, encouraged her moving about, walking stairs etc to try get baby down ad advance the labour. I left at about 11 to give them (mom & dad) a chance to nap as they were both so tired after being up half the night (and many more before).

I headed back at 2 as the midwife was again going to consider applying gel to cervix. mom said her contractions were strong and regular.
We got her moving and walking again contractions were strong and regular so we didn’t think any intervention at the time was necessary. By 4 there was still no progress in terms of dilation but Mom though still strong was starting to physically tire so midwife gave her the options of gel on the cervix to help soften it or breaking her water which would mean baby would put more direct pressure on the cervix and the contractions would come on stronger – she opted for breaking of water. They did this at 4.30pm – she was by this time only 6cm .

She is such a strong woman her active labour lasted 4 long hours of really intense contractions we helped her through each one by applying counter pressure on her lower back. Her husband was fantastic, he was by her side the whole way encouraging her, applying pressure and helping soothe her.

She had only wanted to get into the water in the pushing stage but she started tiring and becoming overwhelmed by the contractions so we encouraged her in to labour there a while which gave immediate visible relief. At 8 the midwife again checked at moms request if baby was descending and was worried to see she was only 8cm dilated, her cervix had thinned on one side but the upper side was still thick – turned out baby had his head tilted slightly up – not tucked in chin to chest.
Midwives were starting to worry that they would need to transfer mom to the hospital so they decided to give it a last try to get baby to move so he could come out. Dad sent out an sms to their ‘prayer warriors’ to pray babies head down, midwives got mom to put one foot up on a low stool and do lunges which worked like a dream immediately mom could feel baby moving down she did this a few times and then we moved her back to the pool she had a few very intense contractions, midwife helped the lip of the cervix over babies head so he could move properly into the birthing canal, we encouraged mom to push with every contractions. She worked so hard to get her baby born, it was unbelievable witnessing her strength and faith at work in getting baby out.
At 8.50 after lots of hard, tiring and forceful pushing little Gabriel emerged. Beautiful, still with some vernix and quite tired. He lay quietly in mommy’s arms and mommy who just seconds before had looked exhausted and totally drained suddenly looked beautiful, totally illuminated, excited and full of energy. They stayed together for a short while but midwife could not leave baby too long as he was tired and they needed to check he was okay and get him warmed up (I don’t think mom minded so much as she was tired too and just wanted to finish up so she could climb in bed with her baby). Baby was wrapped up tight and given to Dad while mom birthed the placenta. They then went off to the room for the midwife to check on Mom and I got busy, tidying up their space to try return it to ‘pre birth’ state leaving them to spend their time together as a family without interruptions.

I made sure they were settled, had something to drink and then headed home at 10.30 – was a very long day but an unbelievable one.

don’t know baby’s details except that he weighed 3.88kg’s as I kept to the background once I was no longer needed. Name is Gabriel meaning God’s strength (which was her mantra through the labour). We knew ahead of time he was a little baby boy.

Personally the experience was empowering, it was like reliving Rafe’s birth and to actually witness that I DID that – I have new respect for myself.

More about Doulas

What is your fall-back sure-fire get the kids to eat recipe?
email it to us at admin@earthbabies.co.za and stand a chance to win Enchantrix bubble bath for the kids.

This is a favourite meal for Yvonne’s (Concious Living) children.

Bacon & Vegetable Quiche

2 Tbsp butter/marg/oil
1 packet bacon (250g) rindless, chopped
1 large onion
1 cup spinach, torn/shredded
1 cup baby marrows, chopped (Yvonne suggests grating it)
1 cup carrots, grated
1/2 cup flour
5 eggs
1 tsp baking powder
1 cup cheese, grated
3/4 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1 cup milk
Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)

Heat up oil in large pot to very high heat.

Add chopped bacon on onion, fry until browned.

Add spinach, marrows and carrots, stir fry for 2 minutes only to develop flavour.

Remove pot from heat!

Add flour and mix in well.

Add all remaining ingrediants and mix well.

Pour into large glass dish (bear in mind that it will rise slightly due to baking powder) and bake in oven preheated to 190deg C for +/- 35 minutes (or until browned on top)

1) POUCH SLING (or Pocket Sling)

A pouch sling is by far the easiest of the baby carriers to use. It is a tube of fabric which you wear diagonally across your body (on one shoulder like a sash). The tube is folded double, forming a pocket which you can pop baby into.
At Earth Babies we stock the Rhubarb and Custard Pouch.

Pros:

Very easy to use,

No real learning curve

Ideal for newborns and small babies

Streamlined look – not bulky

No clips, buckles, rings, tying or adjusting

Lightweight and folds slim to fit in any bag

Possible to breastfeed with baby in it

Excellent for quick trips/errands

Cons:

Weight distributed to only one shoulder

Not Adjustable – baby cannot be pulled in close to the body resulting in body strain and feeling baby is not secure

Not specifically practical with toddlers

Comes in different sizes – correct size is important

Can be difficult to determine correct size

Parents/caregivers can’t share pouch if different sizes

Less discreet for breast feeding (does not provide cover)

A bit of a manoeuvre to take off if baby falls asleep

Though it does free up your hands it is not hands free (specifically once baby sits upright)

2) PADDED RING SLING

A length of fabric with padding in the shoulder area and the edges of the fabric. Some are thinly padded in the body of the sling. The one end of the sling is sewn closed to form a tab or point and this is threaded through 2 rings on the opposite side to form a circular tube.
It is similar to a pouch in that it has limited adjustment but is easy to use (pro’s and cons are similar apart from that the Padded ring sling has slightly more scope for adjustment and it is a bulkier carrier)
At Earth Babies we no longer stock a Padded ring Sling

Pros:

Easy to use,

No real learning curve

Ideal for newborns and small babies

Possible to breastfeed with baby in it

Excellent for quick trips/errands

Easy to take off if baby falls asleep

Padding provides a little cushioning on contact points (shoulder)

Cons:

Weight distributed to only one shoulder

Not wide range of adjustment – baby cannot be pulled in as close to the body resulting in body strain and feeling baby is not secure

Comes in different sizes – correct size is important

Can be difficult to determine correct size

Parents/caregivers can’t share pouch if different sizes

Less discreet for breast feeding (does not provide cover)

Though it does free up your hands it is not totally hands free

Because of the padding it can appear to be bulky and can be hot to wear

If the body is lightly padded the sling becomes less flexible around the body

Does not fold up small but can fit in a bigger nappy bag

3) UNPADDED RING SLING
An unpadded ring sling is the most practical of the carriers.
It is a length of lightweight fabric with rings sewn in on one end. The open side of fabric is fed through the rings (like a basic belt buckle) to make a secure pouch/pocket for the baby.
The sling is worn over your shoulder and across the body like a sash. You adjust the size and fit of the carrier by pulling the fabric through the rings to get excellent support and comfort for you both.
At Earth Babies we sell Earth Babies Unpadded ring sling

Pros:

One size fits all – can be shared with all caretakers

Unlimited adjustment ** – the top, bottom edges and the centre (body of the fabric) can be adjusted independently to custom fit your needs.

** The close fit allows for comfortable and secure hands free carrying.

Easy to get baby in high and snug

Good for the snugly tummy to tummy position

Good for quick trips/errands and longer periods of wearing (even with bigger babies)

The open tail makes it excellent for discreet covered breast feeding

Has the most options of all the carriers on positions in which baby can carried – lying down (on back or tummy to tummy); upright (facing in or out – legs in or out); hip carry, back carry and hammock carry (for preschoolers)

Lots of room to get longer legs in and out.

Easy to take off once baby falls asleep

Folds up small, fit in practically any nappy bag

Non bulky to wear

Light, flexible and breathable fabric

Cons:

Weight distributed to only one shoulder

Takes practice to get used to adjusting fabric through the rings and getting a comfortable carry

Some people do not like the extra fabric in the tail

Rings can appear to be in the way if not correctly fitted

If not used correctly it can be uncomfortable and cause strain

4) SOFT STRUCTURED CARRIER
Soft structured carriers are more conventional back-pack type carriers. Ideal for heavier, older baby and toddler carrying.
They have an approximately rectangular section which holds your baby securely against your body and straps to attach the carrier to you. Some tie on and some fasten with clips. They are generally easy to use and distribute the weight of your baby evenly, and vertically on your back much like a rucksack or backpack.
At Earth Babies we sell the Khanyisa African Baby Carrier

Pros:

Easy to learn to use

Can be used on front or back

Relatively adjustable in size

One size fits most so can be shared by parents/care givers

Has a padded waist belt to support under babies bum

Weight distribution is balanced over both shoulders, back and waist

Good for heavier babies/toddlers,

Comfortable for long periods of wearing and carrying of heavy babies

Usually have highest resale value

Sturdy fabric

Cons:

Adjusting of belts and buckles can take a while to figure out.

Uncomfortable if not correctly fitted

Can’t really be used for comfortable breast feeding

Not recommended for newborns and babies under 3-4 months (lack of neck/head control)

Does not hold baby as snugly against body as some other options may

Can only be carried in upright position

Child is always inward facing (towards parents body)

Very bulky to store

4) WRAP
A wrap comes in either stretchy or non-stretchy fabric. It is the most versatile and probably comfortable baby carrier but the one most difficult to learn to use optimally.
It is a length of fabric with which you wrap the baby onto your body in different positions.

At Earth Babies we sell the Traditional Kikoi wrap (non stretchy) – The stretchy Wrap me up Baby Wrapz is coming soon.

Pros:

Two-shouldered carry – most people find them extremely comfortable to wear, even with a heavy baby, as the baby’s weight can be spread closely over both shoulders, back and the waist/hips.

Fit any size and shape perfectly

Gives baby’s head, neck, back, hips and legs ideal support

Holds baby high and snug

Grows with baby

No baby too small for this style carrier (perfect for premies & kangaroo care)

Can pre-tie and pop baby in and out for quick errands

Versatile – you can wear your baby in almost any position, choosing a wrap that suits you.

Can be used for newborns right through to older toddlers

Cons:

Greatest learning curve, especially for back carries **

** This means that occasional carers are less likely to try using it

Long piece of fabric can be intimidating and overwhelming when wrapping.

Bulky to store

Some people feel constrained or engulfed by the amount of fabric around them.

For some it is not an easy on and off option so only used if wearing baby for long periods.

It can be hot, depending on the fabric and season

Why not try our fun Which Baby carrier for me? Quiz

A quick fun guide on which carrier/s would best suit you, according to what you want it for.

***You can choose more than one option per group

1) How long do you think you would like to carry for

a) For the first 6 months
b) For the first year plus
c) For the first year at least
d) For as long as I can carry their weight

2) In what situations do you think you would use your carrier, do you need free hands?

a) Around the house or quick outings – 1 hand free will be enough
b) When out, shopping or working. Need to be hands free.
c) For long periods of wearing. Need hand free.
d) For going on long walks or hikes

3) Who will be using your baby carrier?

a) Only me
b) Anyone who cares for baby
c) Mostly myself and possibly husband
d) Myself & husband (and possibly others)

4) How much time are you willing to spend learning how to use it?

a) Few minutes max
b) I don’t mind practicing a bit
c) I have time and love experimenting, give me a challenge
d) I would prefer something you set up and leave. Not too fiddly

5) What look do you like?

a) Stylish, Trendy
b) Boho, Relaxed
c) Casual, Comfortable
d) Sporty, Structured

6) In terms of comfort, how do you imagine carrying baby most?

a) Lying down or sitting
b) Lying or on my front, I like hip carrying
c) Upright snuggled close – on my front able to face out
d) Once big enough definitely on my back and upright.

7) How old is baby right now ?

a) Pregnant or Newborn
b) Pregnant – 8 months
c) Pregnant or Newborn
d) 4months and older

8 ) If breastfeeding – are you wanting something you can breastfeed easily & discretely in?

a) Would be nice if it was easy, discreet not really an issue
b) Yup that is high on my list
c) No I doubt I will be feeding with baby in a carrier
d) If they can but it is not really something I would do

9) Will you be putting baby in and out often?

a) Yes, needs to be quick in and out
b) Yup relatively easy in and outs
c) No once baby is in they will stay there for a while
d) No but would like it to be fuss free when we do use it

10) Do you want to always have it close at hand and is carry space an issue?

a) I want it folded neatly and take as little space possible in my bag
b) I want it close so needs to be able to fit in my bag
c) My bag is BIG – space for everything
d) Dont mind carrying something extra when I need it

If your highest score was A, you might enjoy a pouch.
If your highest score was B, you might enjoy a ring sling.
If your highest score was C, you might enjoy a long wrap
If your highest score was D, you might enjoy a structured carrier

Baby Carrier Comparison (Pro’s & Con’s)

Modern babies are held as little as 20% of the day due to parents having various gadgets to ‘help’ – we shift them from cot to pram to bouncer to swing-chair to car-seat. No need to take them from the car-seat, simply take it with!

All of these devices are perceived as making a parent’s life more convenient but what about the baby? Is it as beneficial to the baby?

Babies have an instinctive need to be in-arms. Human babies are born virtually helpless and so they rely totally on their caregiver to meet all their needs. They know that the safest place to be is close to their mother/carer. They are designed to crave close human contact as this is what ensured their survival over the centuries. Although the environment that most babies are born into today is a lot safer than 100’s of years ago babies are still programmed to want this contact.

Not only does being close to the parent ensure their survival but they also instinctively know that the best place for them to watch, listen and learn about what their species and their behaviour.

Baby wearing creates a strong bond between caregiver and baby, this attachment in the baby years can boost a child’s confidence in themselves and there relationship with their parents for years to come. Dr Sear’s an American Paediatrician and advocate of attachment parenting says “With the high-touch parenting style called attachment parenting, you can build and strengthen this connection between you and your child, laying the foundation for discipline.” ( to read more visit www.askdrsears.com )

So while all these modern gadgets may be convenient for us parents, we need to consider their impact on our babies who need this vital contact. Should we not learn from non-western communities and consider the benefits of Baby Wearing?

1. Happy baby: Babies who are carried more often have been found to be in general calmer and they cry/fuss less.

* Mother and baby contact is the baby’s first socio-emotional interaction – it allows for both emotional and sensory stimulation.
* A Study done in 1986 by Hunziker and Barr on increased carrying and its affect on infant crying, showed that baby’s who were carried more throughout the day cried less and the intensity of their crying was less distressed – (this study specifically looks at the occurrence and increased diagnosis of ‘3 month colic’ ).
* Decreased reflux and colic (wind): Many moms have said that a sling helps with colic (wind), by reducing the need for burping as well as babies’ tendencies of vomiting and excess spitting up. Being supported in a more upright position seems to help, as does the soothing movement of the mother’s body.

2. Feeling secure: being close to mom is a baby’s safe place.

* Moms have found that babies who are carried are less likely to become overstimulated – not only is baby happiest when in physical contact with a parent, but in a new environment – especially one with a lot of outside stimulation (eg. shopping centre) – babies often feel insecure. The general trend is covering of a baby’s pram to block out the visual stimulation. This however does not block out the auditory stimulation, which can overwhelm when isolated with no view of the cause. Babywearing helps baby feel safe in all situations.

3. Alternative style carriers are gentler on tiny backs:

* They support the baby’s neck preventing whiplash type injuries to neck and spine.
* Allow for carrying in positions that place no weight bearing pressure on the spine (”The young baby should be horizontal or inclined, with the spine supported along its length” ~ Rochelle L. Casses, D.C)
* The baby is supported by fabric that conforms firmly to their body, this eliminates pressure on their developing backs from hanging upright, unsupported and with all their downward weight on their pelvis & lower back.
* Baby is supported under the entire bum and thighs not only between the legs.

4. Comfortable for mom/dad:

* No rigid frame with set arm and leg openings.
* Baby’s weight is distributed more evenly across the body and supported into the body (usually against the shoulders, back and hips) as opposed to the full weight hanging from the shoulders and away from the body (which pulls your centre of gravity off kilter resulting in the strain of continuously correcting posture).
* Certain of the carriers (unpadded slings & wraps) have unlimited adjustment which allows you to find the most comfortable balanced carry for yourself and baby

5. More confident parents

* A parent able to recognize baby’s needs and triggers and reduce crying, helps to lessen the feelings of panic or being overwhelmed.
* When spending close time with your baby, it is easier able to recognise and relate to her needs, this promotes responsiveness and allows for an increased attachment.
* Can help with maternal depression and aids bonding between mother and baby
* Mothers’ struggling to adjust to having a new baby have found that carrying can help them to bond without the pressure of having to emotionally interact when they feel unable to.

6. Soft carriers such as the slings and wraps offer a variety of carry positions which you can change depending on your baby’s age and mood. eg. lying – horizontal or diagonal, upright – facing in or out, on your front, hip, back etc.

7. Improves baby’s development:

* Babies who are held and cuddled a lot are more attentive and develop mentally and physically much quicker than babies who receive minimal physical contact.
* Enhanced language and social skills: Babies who are worn experience people interacting at eye and voice level, through this involvement in conversation they learn not only language, facial interaction and sounds but the ability to listen.
* Carried babies spend more time in a quiet, alert state which allows for optimal learning – without specific teaching taking place.
* A baby with a sense of security and trust is more receptive to external stimulus.
* The continual movement helps develop and regulate a babies vestibular system which helps with balance and spacial awareness.
* Interaction within their environment helps the brain to grow and learn through stimulating the branching out and connecting of nerves – babywearing helps the right connections to be made

8. Allows for easier breastfeeding

* Contact is an important trigger both for babies latching ability but also a mothers ability to produce milk. Carrying allows for this closeness.
*Slings are ideal for discreet breastfeeding when in public, making it a more comfortable experience for mother, baby and those in the vicinity.
* For a mother with older children sometimes finding time to breastfeed can appear to be a challenge – a sling can help support baby at the breast, leaving mom hands free to give attention to a sibling at the same time (cuddle, read a story, build a puzzle etc).

9. Free hands:

* What all moms’ need … more hands. It is a lot easier to get daily tasks done while wearing your baby than to try and rush to do things before baby starts crying.
* Some carriers allow for hands free wearing, specifically those that hold baby securely against your body (front back carriers, wraps, unpadded slings).
* Having the ability to be able to do things beyond simply holding your baby in your arms, helps to lessen that isolated/trapped feeling mothers often experience.
* Needed when you have other children – see last * of point 8. This also helps with sibling bonding and acceptance as it lessens jealousy, without too much pressure and tug of war for mom-time

10. They are practical.

* They allow for more freedom of movement – eg. when shopping – having a pram can be limiting in terms of moving between floors, maneuvering between people and aisles and it is impossible to push a pram and a trolley.
* They are economical – carrier R200-R300 vs pram R600 +.
* Baby carriers can be folded up and packed into a bag so are close at hand when needed.


Great Babywearing sites and articles
The BabyWearer
Dr Sears on Baby wearing
10 reasons to wear your baby
La Leche League’s view on the benefits
Babywearing International

Research based articles
Baby carriers and Spinal Stress
Hunziker and Barr study on the affects of baby carrying on infant crying