To swaddle or not?

To swaddle or not? Swaddling is a traditional practice of wrapping a baby up gently in a light, breathable blanket to help them feel calm and sleep. They should only have their body wrapped and not their neck or head (unlike stick baby pictured!) . The idea is that being swaddled will help your little one feel snug and secure, like how they felt in your womb. Often people say swaddling seems to help calm their little one, helping them settle more easily and sleep for longer. Yet there is little research to support these theories. It’s also thought that swaddling prevents unnecessary wake-ups caused a baby’s startle reflex.  Seeing that babies were held tightly in the womb, it makes sense that they may enjoy being wrapped lightly once they are born. Medical opinion on whether swaddling is a good practice or not is divided. So, if you’re considering swaddling your baby, make sure you always follow safe swaddling guidelines to protect your little one. . Avoid swaddling whilst breastfeeding as feeding causes them to get hot and they may overheat. Some evidence suggests that swaddling to often can cause hip dysplasia. To avoid this, ensure your baby is not wrapped too tightly and that they are able to bring their knees up. . Swaddling may prevent a small baby rolling onto their front from their backs when asleep, however when they are old enough to roll, they should not be swaddled any longer. If a swaddled baby rolls onto their front, their restricted arms will not allow them to lift their head and a risk of suffocation ensues. Never put a swaddled baby to sleep on their front or side. Swaddle in thin fabric to prevent over heating. Not all babies like being swaddled by the way! . So what do you think about swaddling, did you swaddle your baby?