Carrying Your Baby Facing Outward – Is It the Best Choice?

Carrying Your Baby Facing Outward – Is It the Best Choice?

Many parents eagerly await the moment when their little one is ready to explore the world from a new perspective. Carrying your baby facing outward in a baby carrier often seems like a natural next step as the child becomes more curious about their surroundings. However, it's important to consider whether this is the best position for your baby.

Front-Facing Baby Carrier - why should you be cautious?

Wearing your baby in an ergonomic baby carrier allows for close contact while giving you the freedom to move. However, carrying your child facing outward can be controversial. While it may seem appealing, it's essential to examine how this position affects your baby's health and comfort.

Strain on the spine and hips

The outward-facing position can negatively impact your baby's posture. In this position, the child often "hangs" by the crotch, leading to improper alignment of the spine and added stress on the hips. In an ergonomic carrier, it's recommended that the baby is supported under the bottom and thighs, with legs spread in the so-called "M-position" or "frog position." This supports healthy development of the hips and spine. Achieving this proper posture is difficult when the baby is facing outward, which can lead to discomfort and long-term health issues.

Overstimulation and Lack of Security

Carrying your baby facing outward exposes them to an excess of stimuli. Without the ability to snuggle into the parent's embrace or turn away from the environment, the baby may feel overwhelmed. This is especially true for infants who are just beginning to explore the world and may experience stress from an overload of sounds, sights, and other sensations. Carrying your baby facing you in a baby carrier provides a greater sense of security and allows for controlled exploration of the surroundings.

Facing Inward Baby Carrier - Better Alternative

While carrying your baby facing outward in a carrier might seem attractive for discovering the environment, it poses several risks to the health and comfort of your little one. A better choice is to carry your baby facing you in an ergonomic baby carrier (position belly to belly or face to face). This position supports proper development of the spine and hips and ensures a sense of security, allowing you to manage the amount of stimuli your baby is exposed to.