Is Swaddling Safe for Newborns? A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents on How to Do It

The baby's initial visit to the hospital nursery probably resulted in her return wrapped comfortably like a gift, with only her head revealing.

This wrapping method, known as swaddling, is an age-old tradition involving wrapping newborns in a thin blanket or cloth. Not only is it cute but it also plays an essential role in keeping the little one tranquil and building up better sleep.

Why Is Swaddling Important for Babies?

Swaddling helps the baby feel safe as he or she adapts to life outside the womb. Dr. Kyle Monk, a pediatrician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, makes it clear that newborns find swaddling soothing because it mimes the comfort of the womb.

Additionally, swaddling hinders the baby from whipping her limbs, which can surprise her awake and disturb her sleep. It also keeps her warm until her internal thermostat kicks in.

However, mastering the art of swaddling can seem astounding, specifically for sleep-deprived parents. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to swaddle your newborn securely and efficiently, along with tips on when to stop swaddling.

How To Swaddle Your Baby

1. Get ready for the swaddle blanket by laying it flat in a diamond shape and folding the top corner down.
2. Place the baby face-up on the blanket, guaranteeing her head is above the folded edge.
3. Straighten the baby's left arm and wrap the left side of the blanket over her chest, inserting it below her right arm and back.
4. Bring the bottom corner of the blanket up over the baby's body and insert it under the first fold, then straighten her right arm and wrap the right side of the blanket over the body.
5. Secure the blanket comfortably below her left side, guaranteeing it's not too loose or tight.

Read Also: 3 Easy Strategies for Various Sleeping Challenges

Tips for Swaddling

1. The swaddle should be comfortable but not tightening, permitting the baby to move her legs easily.
2. Consider the "arms out" method if the baby chooses to have his or her arms free.
3. If the baby is squirmy, take breaks and try again later, or consider alternative swaddling methods like Velcro wraps.
4. Preemies can also help from swaddling, but conform the positioning of their hands to guarantee satisfaction.

While swaddling has many advantages, it's important to practice it securely. Always follow the guidelines to avoid risks such as suffocation or hip issues.

Additionally, know when to send swaddling as the baby becomes more energetic and starts trying to roll over. Remember, every baby is unique, so if swaddling doesn't work for the little one, it's okay to miss it and explore other comforting methods.

Parents must understand the probable dangers related to swaddling. Swaddling can lessen a baby's capability to wake up easily, which may seem appealing to exhausted parents seeking longer periods of sleep.

However, this decreased arousal can pose a problem and is believed to be a significant factor in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

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