There are many benefits to baby wearing, but did you know that you could be doing yourself harm too? Check out some of the common mistakes below. Are you guilty of any of the postures?
This first picture, demonstrates the baby positioned too low causing increased strain and tension in the low back. With a weakened core due to recent pregnancy and delivery (whether cesarean or vaginal) can cause pushing out through the abdominals leading to increased intra-abdominal pressure further. This pressure can delay healing of diastasis recti, further weaken pelvic floor, and create pain in low back. I'm sure you can still remember the pain your back was in towards the last few weeks of pregnancy as your growing belly changed your center of gravity and caused increased strain to your low back - the same principle applies here! The difference is, you can remove your "belly" (aka baby) from the baby carrier and/or adjust to a more comfortable position!
In the second picture, we see baby positioned in correct carrying spot, however my lower back has an increased lordosis (increased curvature of low back) and my knees are locked. This happens often when a mother has a weakened core. A weak core can be presented with many symptoms including diastasis recti, weak pelvic floor which may lead to incontinence (leaking), low back pain, and discomfort "down there."
There are two ways to carry your baby with good posture while in the carrier. The first is with baby in front (pictured above). My spine is being maintained in neutral with a strong core. There is also a soft bend at my knees and my head is maintained in line with my shoulders. To maintain this posture, I am ACTIVELY engaging my core. The second way to carry baby with good posture is positioned on your back (pictured below), which is the typical way to carry a backpack. You are a lot less likely to compensate with poor posture in this position.
My professional advice would be to avoid wearing baby if you are experiencing any pelvic floor weakness, leaking, discomfort "down there", or have diastasis recti. Carry baby in stroller or have your spouse take some of the load. If you must wear baby, LIMIT the time baby is in carrier. Contact me today if you have questions!
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