August 21, 2023
When I found out I was expecting, I was determined to embrace babywearing. I’d often see mothers struggling with bulky strollers and awkward carriers, thinking there had to be a smarter option. Instead of registering for those items, we opted for a convertible car seat and two Moby wraps—one in beige and the other in chocolate, just in case one needed a wash.
My partner was the first to take the plunge. In the hospital room, he watched a quick YouTube tutorial, skillfully wrapped the fabric, and gently placed our little one inside. He then showed me how to do it, and I proudly wore my baby, Clara, as we left the hospital.
From that moment on, whenever I got out of bed and wasn’t tending to a diaper change, Clara was snugly wrapped against me. At just four days old, she joined me at Christmas mass. By her first week, we explored a national park together. At two weeks, we were off hiking, with our dog carrying the supplies. In hindsight, I probably shouldn’t have been so active that early, as I ended up bleeding for six weeks. But I was eager to reclaim my life, and wrapping Clara allowed me to do just that, especially when I learned to adjust the wrap for nursing. We dined at an oyster bar, mingled with others, hiked, attended services, and even managed household chores like washing dishes and cleaning.
Not only did babywearing regain our social life, but it also helped maintain our home. With no family nearby, this was essential. When my mother-in-law finally visited, she couldn’t believe how well we were managing. “You act like this is your third or fourth baby, not your first!” she exclaimed. The secret was simple: we could keep Clara close and continue living life.
Beyond practicalities, babywearing played a crucial role in my mental health. Having faced significant depressive episodes in the past, including perinatal depression, I had to take medication during my pregnancy with Clara and was at high risk for postpartum depression. Babywearing became a lifeline. Research shows that physical touch is a protective factor against PPD, and babywearing essentially provides constant contact. I spent my days showering Clara with kisses and cuddling her tiny feet. Coupled with the quick return to my normal life, I believe it was this connection that shielded me from postpartum depression.
I felt fulfilled and balanced, all thanks to a simple piece of fabric. However, I couldn’t help but wonder if there were more ways to tie the wrap. I ventured online and stumbled upon forums at thebabywearer.com. There, I found a group of fellow mothers—some from my local area! We set up a meet at someone’s home.
I was anxious about bringing my baby to meet strangers I’d only encountered online. However, once inside, I discovered my community. I had never seen anyone breastfeed, like Sarah, or use formula, like Jenna. I learned about co-sleeping from Laura and saw various carrier styles from Michelle and Amy—a ring sling, a woven wrap, and a pouch. They helped me try each one with Clara, and I went home eager to purchase a woven wrap.
I spent my early days of motherhood enveloped in the warmth of the babywearing community; it was inclusive and compassionate. Some moms used formula, others had cribs, and some carried their babies in the very carriers I had once dismissed. I learned to embrace all parenting choices and, in turn, found friendships with those who understood my journey—navigating toddler tantrums, preschool drama, and the challenges of young children. They celebrated each of my milestones and delivered meals during challenging times. We even supported one another through heartbreak, like the loss of a friend’s baby. Many from that community remain dear friends today.
Babywearing transformed my life; it restored my sense of self and helped me dodge postpartum depression. Most importantly, it gifted me with a circle of mom friends—every mother needs that support. I transitioned from a simple Moby wrap to confidently wearing Clara on my back in a woven carrier, eventually becoming a babywearing educator to help other new mothers reclaim their lives too.
The Moby wrap made our postpartum journey pleasant, but babywearing enriched our time as a family. Honestly, I can’t imagine navigating the challenges of early motherhood without it. I’m thankful for my mental well-being, the life I built, and the friendships I fostered. But above all, I cherish the hours spent cuddling my babies.
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Summary:
Babywearing transformed my early motherhood experience, providing both practical support and emotional stability. It helped me reclaim my social life, care for my household, and foster deep connections with other mothers. Through the power of touch and community, I avoided postpartum depression and found joy in everyday moments with my baby.