Babywearing 101
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Benefits of Babywearing
Choosing a baby carrier... Here are some things to consider
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Stages of Babywearing | |
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Stage 1: 0-3 Months Babies require the most support until they can hold their head up |
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Stage 2: 3-6 Months The cervical region, located at the uppermost part of the spine, |
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Stage 3: 6-9 Months The middle area of the spine, known as the thoracic region, |
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Stage 4: 9-12+ Months The final stage is complete once baby begins to walk. During this |
Sub Optimal vs Optimal The most optimal position for a baby to be worn in a carrier is when the baby is held in it’s natural, most beneficial position for hip and spinal development. This position is known at the 'M' position where the baby sits with it's thighs spread around the wearer’s torso and the hips bent so the knees are slightly higher than the buttocks with the thighs supported. It is important to understand that wearing a baby in a sub optimal position isn't unsafe for the baby but if there is an underlying hip condition, this position can contribute to hip displaysia. It is highly recommended that you use an ergonomic carrier over a narrow based carrier for this reason. |
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Sub Optimal Thigh NOT supported to the knee joint. The resulting forces on the hip joint may contribute to hip dysplasia.
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Optimal Thigh is supported to the knee joint. The forces on the hip joint are minimal because the legs are spread, supported, and the hip is in a more stable position. This is known as the ‘M’ position. |
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Narrow Based Carrier Not ergonomically designed and places legs in an unhealthy position. The thigh is not supported to the knee joint adding pressure to the hip joint. Carries the risk for abnormal hip development.
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Ergonomic Carrier Ergonomically designed carrier with hips in a healthy position. Thighs spread around the mother’s torso and the hips bent so the knees are slightly higher than the buttocks with the thighs supported. |
Information on this page complied from various resources including The International Hip Displaysia Institute, Baby Doo USA |