The Benefits of Babywearing for Mom AND Baby

A headshot of Carolyn Denning, a certified nurse midwife at Haven Birth and Wellness.
Carolyn Denning, CNM, MSN
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January 28, 2025
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Featured image for “The Benefits of Babywearing for Mom AND Baby”

Babywearing is a practice as old as time, one that’s as common as it is practical in cultures across the world.

Having lived in South Africa for several years, I had the privilege of experiencing a daily life in which babywearing was normal and common. Mothers there wear their babies for everything, whether they’re walking to the market or doing laundry. I came to deeply appreciate the profound benefits of babywearing — both its convenience and its physical and emotional advantages for both mom and baby.

So, let’s talk about the benefits of babywearing along with helpful tips for this near-universal practice.

The Benefits of Babywearing

No matter where we are in the world, one thing remains true: We all want our babies close. Babywearing fulfills this innate need while offering a host of physical, emotional, and developmental advantages:

  • Supports Baby’s Physical Development: Babywearing helps regulate your baby’s breathing, heart rate, temperature, and oxygen levels. It can even reduce reflux and prevent spinal and cranial deformities.
  • Promotes Bonding: The physical closeness increases [oxytocin](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK148970/#:~:text=FIGURE 5-,Oxytocin,-.) for both mom and baby, strengthening your bond while also supporting breastfeeding.
  • Convenience for Mom: Wearing your baby allows you to move hands-free while still meeting your and your baby’s need for connection.
  • Reduces Stress for Both: Babywearing can soothe a fussy baby and bring a sense of calm by regulating both of your nervous systems.
  • Boosts Immunity: With your baby tucked in close, they’re less exposed to the germs of the outside world.

Babywearing is a beautiful way to take on the world together while reaping benefits that go far beyond the physical.

Graphic: The Benefits of Babywearing for Mom AND Baby

How Long Should You Babywear in a Day?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this, and the right amount varies depending on your baby’s needs and your comfort level.

In the early postpartum stage, I don’t always encourage babywearing — because it implies you’ll be up and about completing tasks on your to-do list. Instead, I suggest reserving this precious time to focus on bonding and healing. For instance, enjoy lots of skin-to-skin contact with your baby while reclining in bed or a comfortable chair, and protect your pelvic floor as your body recovers.

As you begin to feel ready, babywearing can be a wonderful way to ease back into daily activities while keeping your little one close. Whether it’s for a few minutes or several hours, wear your baby as long as it feels good for both of you.

Dads can also join in once your baby gains good head control. You can even experiment with adjusting your carrier to allow baby to face outward, opening up a whole new world of stimulation and discovery.

When Should You Stop Babywearing?

The beauty of babywearing is its simplicity — stop when it no longer feels comfortable for you or when your baby outgrows the carrier’s height and weight limits. Trust your instincts and enjoy the journey!

Choosing the Right Baby Carrier

With so many options available — and the pressure we often feel to choose the “perfect” option for our child — finding the right baby carrier can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick overview of the different types:

  • Soft Structured Carriers
  • Wraps
  • Slings
  • Mei-Tai Carriers
  • Backpack Carriers
  • Hip Seats

What matters most is choosing what works for you and your baby. My two children each had distinct preferences for their carriers, which taught me the value of trying out different styles. If you can borrow carriers from friends to test them before committing, it can save you both time and money. Thrift stores and other resale shops can also be a great resource.

If you’re planning to wear a newborn, it’s important to do some research. Look for carriers made specifically for newborns or with specific newborn inserts to support their limited head control. Many companies design carriers to transition from the newborn to infant stage, providing flexibility as your baby grows. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and make sure the carrier fits both you and your baby comfortably.

And remember, while there are amazing branded carriers on the market, women around the world successfully wear babies using towels, sheets, and blankets. Don’t stress about finding the “perfect” carrier; the most important thing is the connection it fosters.

Quote: The Benefits of Babywearing for Mom AND Baby

A Final Word on the Benefits of Babywearing

Babywearing is a simple yet profound way to care for your baby while making life a little easier for you. It’s not just a way to transport your baby; it’s a way to nurture their entire being.

If you’re interested in trying babywearing, I encourage you to talk with friends or family who’ve tried it and explore the benefits of babywearing in their everyday lives. Their experiences and advice — and maybe a loaned wrap or two — can help you take the greatest advantage of this wonderfully intimate and profoundly beneficial practice.

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A headshot of Carolyn Denning, a certified nurse midwife at Haven Birth and Wellness.
Carolyn Denning, CNM, MSN

Carolyn Denning, a midwife at Haven Birth and Wellness, grew up in the suburbs of Detroit and earned a degree in Human Physiology from Michigan State University. Her passion for supporting women through pregnancy led her to midwifery, starting as a doula while completing her nursing degree. She gained valuable experience as a Pediatric Emergency and Labor and Delivery nurse at Vanderbilt.Carolyn and her husband, Dustin, served as missionaries in South Africa, where she supported pregnant women and experienced her own transformative home birth. She is a proud mother of two girls, Levy and Josie, and enjoys traveling, exploring nature, and learning about different cultures.

Disclaimer: The content on the Haven Birth and Wellness website is created and/or reviewed by qualified Certified Nurse Midwives and healthcare professionals. We strive to provide accurate and detailed information for our readers. However, this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Your own healthcare provider is best equipped to understand your unique situation and medical history. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any decisions that may affect your health.