Not a few parents are afraid and don't even know how to hold a newborn baby properly. In fact, holding a newborn baby is not as difficult as imagined. Want to know how? Come on, see the following discussion.
The body of a newborn baby does look weak and fragile, so many parents are afraid and worried when holding him. In fact, holding a baby can provide various benefits, ranging from strengthening the bond between parents and baby and calming the baby when he is fussy.
However, parents do need to be careful when holding a newborn, because he is still not able to support his head properly and his crown is still vulnerable to shocks or injuries.
Therefore, it is important for every parent to understand how to properly hold a newborn.
Several Ways to Carry a Newborn Baby
Well, there are several ways to hold a baby that you can try to do, including:
Holding a baby
Cuddling is the most common way of holding a newborn baby. The first step you need to take is to place one arm under your baby's neck and head, while the other hand is on the buttocks.
Lift your little one slowly and adjust his position until he feels comfortable. Your baby's head and neck should be on the inside of the arm or in the crease of the arm when being carried. Next, you can do a slow rocking motion.
Carrying by rocking is often used as a breastfeeding position. In addition, this position is also good for meeting face to face and communicating with your little one.
Hugging baby
How to hold a baby with a hug is usually done after feeding to make him burp. Position your baby's body parallel to your chest and place his head on your shoulder.
Make sure to place one hand between your baby's head and neck, while the other hand supports his buttocks. Holding your little one by hugging can make him feel calm and comfortable, so he will fall asleep easier.
Support the stomachbaby
Holding a baby in a prone position can usually calm him down quickly when he is fussy. To do this method, position your little one on his stomach in the mother's arms. Make sure your baby's head and neck are facing the elbows and support his feet with his hands.
However, the comfort of this way of carrying depends on how long your arms are. If you have short arms, you can lay your little one on your lap in a prone position. Don't forget to support the head and neck.
To carry your little one, you can also use modern fabrics or slings that are currently easy to find. Using these two tools can help mothers carry their little ones without having to support them with their hands.
In addition, carrying with a cloth or modern sling can also make it easier for mothers to adjust the position of the little one, including while breastfeeding.
Things to Pay Attention to When Carrying a Baby
When carrying your little one, mothers and fathers of breastfeeding should avoid rocking or moving their bodies too fast. This is because shaking the little one's body excessively can cause brain bleeding or stroke shaken baby syndrome(SBS). This condition can even cause death in the baby. SBS can occur until a child is 5 years old. However, this condition is usually more at risk for newborns aged 6-8 weeks. Therefore, if you want to lie down or rock your little one, you should do it slowly. How to hold a newborn is important for every parent to pay attention to. However, if you are having a baby for the first time and are still hesitant to carry him often, you can sit while laying him on your lap. Mothers can try several ways to hold the baby on top to get the most comfortable position. Avoid feeling doubtful or worrying too much in holding the baby. If you still have questions about how to care for a baby or a baby cries frequently and the cause is unknown, don't hesitate to consult a doctor for proper examination and treatment.
