Infant Carrier for Postpartum Health

This trial aims to explore whether using baby carriers (also known as infant carriers or baby slings) can improve postpartum health outcomes, such as increasing breastfeeding rates and reducing postpartum depression, particularly for Black birthing parents. The trial will test if carrying babies close can support mental health and mother-infant bonding while respecting cultural practices. Participants will either start using a carrier shortly before birth or wait six months, learning safe usage through a video and home visits. Those who are currently pregnant with one baby, can use a smartphone, and are part of specific community programs might be a good fit. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding cultural practices in postpartum care.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.

Research has shown that infant carriers are generally safe when used according to safety guidelines. These guidelines emphasize the correct positioning of the baby to prevent injury. For example, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has established safety standards to ensure the security of infant sling carriers. These standards help reduce risks like suffocation or falls due to improper positioning.

A previous study on soft infant carriers found positive outcomes, such as increased breastfeeding and reduced postpartum depression, with no major safety issues reported. It is crucial to ensure the baby's face remains visible and their chin is not pressed against their chest, as this can obstruct breathing.

Researchers are excited about the Infant Carrier for postpartum health because it offers a unique, hands-on approach that integrates ergonomic support with parental education, unlike traditional postpartum care that typically focuses on medical check-ups and advice. This intervention emphasizes practical training, where parents learn to use the carrier safely and effectively through demonstration and practice, empowering them with skills for everyday use. By enhancing parent-infant bonding and potentially improving physical health through ergonomic use, this method could provide holistic benefits that standard postpartum care does not typically address.

Research shows that using a baby carrier can benefit new mothers' health after childbirth. In this trial, participants in the intervention group will receive an ergonomic baby carrier and training on its use. One study found that providing mothers with an ergonomic baby carrier reduced signs of postpartum depression. Another study found that using a baby carrier can help mothers breastfeed more successfully. Additionally, research indicates that carrying a baby in a carrier can strengthen the bond between mother and baby and help calm the infant. These findings suggest that baby carriers might be a useful tool for improving mental health and breastfeeding success after childbirth.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰