As someone who has had two children under 2 years, I am completely in support of any device that allows us to do two things at once! Baby carriers, in all of their shapes and sizes, offer the wonderful advantage of keeping your hands free while remaining close to your bub. However, they can also cause all sorts of problems with our bodies, as we spend long periods of time with these sleeping, sometimes wriggling and always growing weights strapped to our bodies. So, how can we prevent these problems often associated with baby-wearing?

Consider the type of carrier

Pouch carrier

eg. Ergo Baby, Baby Bjorn

A padded carrier that can be soft or more structured with straps that go over your shoulders. Bub can face inwards and sometimes outwards (depending on the carrier).

Sling

eg. Ring sling

This carrier is normally worn over one shoulder and allows for face in and face out positions as well as the ‘peapod’ position

Wrap or Mei Tei

eg. Hug-a-bub

A long cloth strip that wraps around the shoulders and ties off around the body.

Consider the key features

Recommended age/weight

Look at the recommended age and weight and make sure it is suitable for your child

Straps

  • Make sure the straps are broad and well padded (for pouch carriers) to reduce the strain on your neck and shoulders
  • Make sure the hip or waist strap is also broad to allow for better distribution of weight
  • Make sure straps are easily adjustable

Material

Consider the climate/season you will be wearing the carrier. Lightweight fabrics are often more breathable and will be more comfortable for bub in the warmer months.

Try before you buy

Selection of a baby carrier will depend on your comfort, your own body shape and size and of course, your baby’s preference (because we all know who the real boss is). You really need to try them on to make sure it is:

  • comfortable
  • it fits properly, and
  • it is easy to get on and off!
Wait until bub is born

As tempting as it is to be as organised as possible before bub comes along, carriers really are better purchased after you’ve had the bub. This way, you can try them on together and see what suits you both.

Consider buying more than one

You might find different carriers suit different situations (i.e going out vs trying to settle bub to sleep) and mixing it up can be a great way of giving your body a break.

Wear it properly
  • Make sure the straps are spread to their full width to ensure good weight distribution
  • Make sure the straps don’t block your baby’s vision or rub their face
  • Make sure baby is close to you and centred with their weight distributed evenly
  • Make sure baby is supported well around the thighs and bottom and that the sling provides adequate head support
  • Consider a soft sling/wrap or new born insert within a structured carrier to optimise bub’s position –  they should be in a flexed ‘cuddling’ position with hips gently splayed
  • Take breaks when you can, mix up bub’s position (inwards facing / outwards facing) and let dad have a turn! You body will thank you.
Do you have any niggles that have popped up as a result of carrying your baby? Get in touch! We can help alleviate some of the stress and make your life easier.

Recommended reading from Glow

When should I see a Physio after Birth?
7 Myths about Rectus Diastasis (Abdominal Separation)
3 tips for a better breastfeeding position