How Baby-Wearing Affects Mommy's Postpartum Body
Baby-wearing is a practice that has been around for centuries, and for good reason. Baby-wearing, the practice of carrying your baby in a sling or carrier, has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its numerous benefits for both parents and babies. As a new mother, you may be wondering how baby-wearing can affect your postpartum body. In this article, we will explore how baby-wearing affects a mother's postpartum body.
May Hinder Postpartum Healing
After giving birth, it is common for mothers to experience discomfort and pain in their abdominal muscles, back, and hips. Baby-wearing can aggravate these aches during the period of postpartum healing as it adds more strain on these areas – especially if you suffer from conditions such as Diastasis Recti or have weak pelvic floor muscles. The act of carrying your baby close to your body for extended periods of time may affect your body posture if not properly aligned as there is added pressure from the baby’s weight on your abdominal muscles and pelvic area. This could result in the worsening of your postpartum symptoms such as back pain, hip pain and pain in your shoulders or neck.
The good news is that these symptoms can be treated with non-invasive physical therapy at Emkore Clinic – where we help you to improve your posture and reduce your pain points, see the results yourself in one session!
Enhances Bonding
Baby-wearing promotes bonding between a mother and her baby. The close physical contact between mother and baby during baby-wearing can help release hormones such as oxytocin, which promotes feelings of love and attachment. It also helps to reduce the chances of negative feelings that can result in postpartum depression and anxiety.
Increases Physical Activity
Baby-wearing is an easy way to increase physical activity for new mothers. Carrying a baby in a sling or carrier requires the use of several muscle groups, which can help tone your postpartum body. Additionally, the added weight of your baby can increase the intensity of your workout, providing a low-impact form of exercise.
Improves Posture
New mothers often experience changes in their posture as a result of carrying and nursing their baby. Baby-wearing can help improve posture by distributing your baby's weight evenly across your body, reducing the strain on your back and shoulders. This can help prevent long-term postural issues and discomfort.
Supports Breastfeeding
Baby-wearing can make breastfeeding more convenient for new mothers. Many slings and carriers allow you to nurse your baby while wearing them, making it easier to breastfeed on-the-go. Additionally, the close physical contact during baby-wearing can stimulate milk production and help establish a strong breastfeeding bond.
In conclusion, baby-wearing can have many positive effects on a mother's postpartum body, yet also affect it negatively if used with a misaligned posture. Conditions such as Diastasis Recti may worsen especially if it is pre-existing, so do be mindful of this and seek a professional opinion in order to take care of your recovering body while still being able to carry your little one. If you are considering baby-wearing, remember to choose a sling or carrier that is safe and comfortable for both you and your baby!