DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding you or your baby’s health. Please read my Medical Disclaimer for more info
DISCLAIMER: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get a commission if you decide to purchase something through my links at no cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer for more info.
Swaddling can help soothe your baby, keep them relaxed for longer, and help mimic being in your uterus which they of course love! However, there are 5 things you should know before you swaddle your baby:
1. It’s ok if your baby doesnt like it!
Having a baby who isn’t old enough to roll over yet isn’t a requirement to have to swaddle! Swaddling is very common and almost seen as a “must-do” but I can assure you, it’s not. And some babies just don’t like it!
Check out more ways to Soothe Your Fussy Baby FAST!
2. Don’t swaddle your baby before breastfeeding
Your baby’s arms shouldn’t cross over their body while breastfeeding; they should be able to hold and touch your breasts.
This is because, in the early days of nursing, your baby may use their hands to knead your breasts while suckling as a way to make them release even more breastmilk!
Watch Now on YouTube!
Watch the YouTube video I made on this information which includes a demonstration of how to swaddle your baby the RIGHT way (and in a cute way!).
3. Don’t pin their arms to their sides
– Babies shouldn’t be swaddled with their arms pinned down to their sides. This is an abnormal position for them since in the womb they were able to bring their hands to their face whenever they wanted to.
Gently cross their arms around their chest/midline area and leave enough space for them to move their arms around if they want to easily!
4. Avoid supressing frequent startle reflexes
You may notice the startle reflex (also called the “Moro reflex”) when loud noises, bright lights, or quick movements trigger your baby to fling their arms and legs and straighten their body.
However, as I mentioned above, the Moro reflex is more likely to occur when your baby is on their back. When he or she is on their side or tummy, it’s less likely to occur.
This reflex is a beneficial thing to decrease the risk of SIDS and indicates good neurological health. Therefore, it should not be intentionally suppressed.
The Moro reflex subsides at 3-6 months old when your baby gains more control over their movements. Ensuring your baby has time for movement daily to stretch their arms and legs will help this reflex slowly go away as needed.
Furthermore, swaddling is a risk factor for SIDS. So keep this in mind when deciding what works best for your family.
5. Discontinue the swaddle by 8 weeks old
Dr. Moon from the AAP recommends that all swaddling ends by 8 weeks postpartum because rolling over will come soon, and we want to ensure swaddling has finished before then.
How to Swaddle Your Baby
My favorite swaddles are the muslin ones and next is the velcro swaddles. Plus, if you need a couple that are good for colder weather, check out these organic cotton swaddles!
You got this! You are encouraged, educated, and empowered.
DISCLAIMER: This post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding you or your baby’s health. Please read my Medical Disclaimer for more info
DISCLAIMER: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may get a commission if you decide to purchase something through my links at no cost to you. Please read my Disclaimer for more info.
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