Baby carrying support - DoulaD.Cheshire

Hands free baby care but still present and responsive

I began my baby carrying journey when my son was born, it freed up my hands to look after my toddler, but allowed me to provide the close contact my new baby craved, as my children grew I continued to use slings and carrier to support myself and my children.

The benefits of carrying your baby and child are considerable, and as research continues we gain a better understanding of the long term effect it can have on family life.

How your baby benefits when you choose to carry them

Studies have shown that babies who are held more cry and fuss less than they otherwise might.
Carrying your baby encourages bonding and attachment, which will lead to children being more confident and independent as they grow.
The motion of being carried and the upright position in a sling can reduce the symptoms of reflux and colic, helping to soothe and settle babies.
Aids in the regulation of breathing, heart rate, temperature and emotions, allowing caregivers to respond to cues more easily. This can be especially useful for premature babies
Using a sling or carrier with good positioning can reduce the impact of hip issues in children who are at risk of hip dysplasia.
There is a reduced risk of plagiocephaly (flat head) in children who are carried, as they spend less time laying on their back.
Enhanced development of motor skills and the vestibular system.
Improved sleep and development of circadian rhythms. So long as a baby’s airway is protected it is safe for a baby to sleep in a sling or carrier.
Allows babies and children to get a parent’s eye view of the world, and social interactions which helps to build relationships.
Supports the establishment and continuation of successful breast feeding.

How you benefit when you choose to carry your baby

Use of a sling or carrier can allow hands free parenting, allowing you to do things you might otherwise find difficult; like eat lunch, change a nappy, play with an older child, read a book.
Using a sling or carrier in the early days allows you to effectively meet your baby’s needs for close contact and nurturing touch.
Holding your baby close encourages bonding and attachment, increasing the release of oxytocin – the love hormone.
Increased levels of oxytocin are thought to play a part in reducing post-natal depression and increasing relationship satisfaction.
Being in close contact with your baby allows you to observe, interpret and respond to their cues more quickly.
Carrying your baby gives you much more flexibility to explore the world together, you can go places a buggy or pram can’t, public transport and shops are easier to navigate.
Babies who are carried, tend to cry less, and sleep better than they otherwise might.
Correctly used a sling or carrier can reduce the physical strain of parenthood, reducing the need to support babies on the hip or one handed, and spreading a baby’s weight more evenly.
It’s not just for the baby stage, you’ve learnt a valuable parenting skill that you can use for years to come.

To make a booking for baby carrying support please contact me directly on D@DoulaD.co.uk or call on: 07854535555

I also attend some local groups and run mini library sessions details of these can be found on my facebook page.

Feedback on baby carrying support

“I now feel comfortable enough to wear my little girl in the wrap we’re having, don’t feel the need to buy something different just because I don’t know how to use it properly”

“Donna listened to everything I had to say whether it be a worry or a question and she reassured me about my choices with positive feedback”

“Donna makes you feel very comfortable and also that you are in control of what you are doing”

“Donna went through the different types available, how they work and gave me the information to make an informed decision.”