Babywearing Benefits, Backed by Science
Babywearing Isn’t Just Convenient—It’s Healthy!
When Arvin was about a month old, I started putting him in a stretchy wrap. Honestly, it was one of the only things—besides nursing 24/7—that would calm him down and help him nap well. I loved it then, and spoiler alert… I still love it 10 months later!
There’s something incredible about being able to wear your baby safely while nursing, rocking, comforting, hiking, and even getting skin-to-skin contact—all while having your hands free to move around!
From stretchy wraps to structured carriers to backpack carriers, we’ve tried quite a few. Arvin has been worn on hikes, while shopping, while cleaning the apartment, and even while walking the dog. As a newborn, he spent most of the church service snuggled in the carrier, and now that he’s getting bigger he spends a lot of time in the carrier while going on hikes through the trails in Oregon! Thanks to babywearing, he’s been able to see the world, stay close to Kade and me, and build strength along the way!
I often see posts, videos, and blogs highlighting how convenient and practical babywearing can be. But what I don’t see as often is information on the physiological and psychological benefits—not just for baby, but also for the person carrying (in this case, mom).
I always knew babywearing was helpful, but I didn’t realize just how beneficial it is for both baby and mom. Over the past 10 months, I’ve experienced firsthand how much it helps Arvin (and me), and I wanted to dive into the research to see why. Turns out, science backs up what so many moms already know—babywearing isn’t just practical, it’s powerful!
How Babywearing Supports Baby’s Development & Mom’s Well-Being
Babywearing Helps Babies Cry Less
Some days, baby just wants to be held all the time, and that’s okay (even if it’s exhausting). Research shows that infants who are carried cry 43% less overall and 54% less in the evening (Hunziker & Barr, 1986). That’s huge. Less crying means a happier baby and a less stressed mama. Most of the time, baby just wants to be close to their mama, to feel her warmth, and hear the familiar sound of her heartbeat, baby wearing makes that easy.
Babywearing Promotes Better Sleep
One of the hardest parts of newborn life is getting them to sleep—and keeping them asleep. Studies show that babies who are worn close to their caregiver fall asleep faster and have more organized sleep cycles (Esposito et al., 2013). No wonder Arvin naps best in the carrier!
Supports Baby’s Brain Development
Skin-to-skin contact and movement while being carried help regulate a baby’s nervous system, breathing, and body temperature (Feldman et al., 2014). Plus, being upright and engaged in their surroundings can support cognitive and social development (Anisfeld et al., 1990).
Strengthens the Parent-Child Bond
Feeling that deep connection while babywearing? There’s science behind that. Wearing baby increases oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” in both mom and baby (Uvnas-Moberg, 2013). This not only strengthens bonding but can also support breastfeeding success and improve postpartum mental health. I know for me, having Arvin as near as possible especially in those early months was important, and baby wearing made that so much easier!
Babywearing Benefits Moms Too
It’s not just babies who benefit—moms who wear their babies report feeling less stressed, more confident, and more in tune with their baby’s needs (Gale et al., 2020). One study even found that babywearing moms had lower rates of postpartum depression and anxiety (Bigelow & Power, 2020). That’s not to say that baby wearing will magically solve all of your problems, I definitely dealt with postpartum anxiety at times. But having your baby close and letting your maternal instincts be in tune is such an empowering feeling!
So, Is Babywearing Worth It? Absolutely.
Looking back, I’m so grateful I started babywearing when Arvin was little. Not only has it made life just a bit easier (especially when he was teething and a stage 5 clinger), but knowing that it supports his development and my well-being makes it even better.
If you’ve been on the fence about babywearing—or just want to learn more about the best carriers—stick around. I’ll be sharing more tips, research, my favorite carriers, and my favorite ways to stay active while wearing baby!
