TheAsianparent was recently at a gathering where over 30 mums from our Breastfeeding Mums Facebook Group came together to mingle and share about their own experiences on breastfeeding.
We caught up with Jasmine Tan-Tai, a babywearing educator for a quick video on how to breastfeed while baby-wearing.
When you're wearing a sling or carrier, don't forget the five key cardinal rules in breastfeeding while baby-wearing – T.I.C.K.S! Fellow mummies, watch the video to see how Jasmine achieves this!
1. Tight
Slings and carriers should be tight enough to snuggle your baby close to you as this will be most comfortable for you both. Any loose fabric or poorly-fastened slings will allow your baby to slump down in the carrier which can severely obstruct their breathing and pull on your back.
2. In view at all times
You should always be able to see your baby’s adorable face by simply glancing down. The fabric of a sling or carrier should not cover their faces or close around them. In a cradle position your baby should face upwards – not be turned in towards your body, which may lead to spillage of milk and an unhappy baby.
3. Close enough to kiss
You should be able to kiss your baby’s head when looking down! Put your baby close to your chin as it is the most comfortable position (the smell of babies though... best thing ever). By tipping your head forward you should be able to kiss your baby on the head or forehead.
4. Keep chin off the chest
Your baby should never be curled where their chin is forced onto their chest as this can restrict their breathing. Ensure there is always a space of at least a finger width under your baby’s chin.
5. Supported back
In an upright carry, a baby should be held comfortably yet firmly close to the wearer so their back is supported in its natural position and their tummy and chest are against you.
If a sling is too loose they can slump which can partially close their airway. This can be tested by placing a hand on your baby’s back and pressing gently - they should not uncurl or move closer to you.
A baby in a cradle carry in a pouch or ring sling should be positioned carefully with their bottom in the deepest part so the sling does not fold them in half pressing their chin to their chest.
