What are the correct postures for holding a baby?

When the baby is born amidst anticipation, the whole family becomes busy and at a loss as to what to do in order to take care of the baby. Even when holding the baby, the family has to be very careful for fear of hurting the baby. Generally, children should not be held upright within 3 months, as this will harm the child's cervical spine. Of course, there are some rules for holding children, and it is necessary to understand them.

1. Horizontal hold

Newborns can only be held horizontally. When the baby is lying on his back, the mother gently inserts her left hand under his waist and buttocks, then gently places her right hand under the baby's head and neck and slowly picks him up. Then, slowly move the right hand behind the baby's head toward the left arm, allowing the baby's head to rest on the mother's left hand. In this way, the baby's body has support and his head will not droop back; holding the baby horizontally in the mother's arms will make him feel very comfortable and safe.

2. Hold vertically

After the baby is two months old, you can hold him upright. Vertical holding is usually used after feeding. After the baby has finished feeding, the mother sits still and slightly adjusts the baby's position so that the baby's buttocks sit on her legs, supporting his back with one hand and his head and neck with the other hand. To burp your baby, pat him/her gently on the back with the hand that is placed on his/her back. This holding position helps with burping and makes a full tummy feel more comfortable.

3. Let the baby sit on the mother's lap

Older babies can adopt this holding position, which is generally used when playing with the baby. Let the baby and mother face each other, spread the baby's legs and let him sit on the mother's hips. The mother supports his back with one hand and the baby's head and neck with the other hand. If the baby feels unsafe at this time, he will grab the mother's arms with his little hands.

4. Hold your baby while standing

This holding position is also suitable for older babies, as it allows the baby to have a wider field of vision. When the mother stands up, don't stand straight first. Bend over and stand up slowly, allowing the upper body and baby to separate naturally. After standing up, the mother supports the baby's neck and back with her hands, leans her upper body slightly forward, and looks at the baby gently with her eyes. Then, the mother can naturally place the baby's head on her chest. Make sure your hands are on the baby's neck and buttocks to avoid accidents due to poor holding.