baby sling

Body: 

Does anyone know whether carrying a baby in a front carrier or sling can be bad for prolapse? Better or worse than carrying a heavy baby in arms?

Rachael

Hi Rachael,

The sling is fine. Just practice the postural and other lifestyle changes.

:-)Christine

I used to carry my babies in a fabric sling (meh tai) on my back as soon as they could control their heads OK, right through to toddlerhood when I needed to. Before that they would be on my front (which was a bit like being over-pregnant, and I could not carry heavier things close to my body with two hands). You just have to be aware that your little one extends out the back further than you think, so be aware that need to be careful when moving in confined areas. I found that the simple fabric sling was great because its straps were infinitly adjustable, so I could drop them lower on my back and carry much of their weight on my pelvis, rather than shoulders. Sticking my butt out made it easier again, especially when they were older. I would guess that you could purchase a fabric sling very cheaply from your local breastfeeding support association or similar. The other good thing about them is that they fold up into nothing in a baby bag, and you just throw them in the washing machine to clean them. I used to keep two of them on the go.

On the whole much better than carrying baby on one hip which does not help your posture one bit.

Cheers

Louise