When babies are born, their Moro reflex or "startle reflex" is present. It causes newborn babies to get startled with large movements or loud noises.
This kind of reflex lasts from their 12th week until babies are in their sixth month.
According to Healthline, a way to avoid the startle reflex is by swaddling the baby.
This method helps newborn babies to feel that they are still in the womb.
When swaddling, a newborn baby is wrapped securely in a blanket for him or her to adjust to the new environment. The hands and feet are secured in the blanket, and only the head of the baby is peeking.
Although some say it is effective and safe to keep babies calm, some parents are hesitant to try it.
Some parents try swaddling alternatives to keep their babies feel comfortable.
Why do parents need swaddling alternatives?
Aside from the hesitations brought by the questions of safety in swaddling, some parents do not see the method fit for their newborn babies.
For example, some babies want their arms or legs out and not swaddled in a blanket.
Remember that in swaddling, it is only the newborn baby's head that peeks out of the blanket.
However, a good swaddling alternative for this is letting the arms of the newborn baby out of the blanket.
Another reason for looking for swaddling alternatives is that the baby does not calm when swaddled.
One of the purposes of swaddling is calming a newborn baby. Thus, if that does not happen, then it is time for some swaddling alternatives.
What are effective swaddling alternatives?
It has been established that not all babies are fans of being kept securely in a blanket. Considering that, here are some of the swaddling alternatives for newborn babies:
Soothe the baby with motion
Instead of swaddling a baby, parents may try rocking a baby in a cradle or while sitting in a rocking chair. Some babies calm through the motion.
Create rituals
When babies are familiar with the kind of activities that keep them calm or are meant to put them to sleep, it is a good swaddling alternative.
A comforting ritual like a baby bath or singing a song can be a big help.
Skin-skin-contact
Parents' warmth can also calm a newborn baby. When babies are irritable, one way of keeping them calm is by holding them against the chest. The baby should be undressed (with only their diaper) and should feel the parent's skin.
Use sleepsuits
Sleepsuits are comfortable for some babies. Rather than securing them in a blanket, a sleepsuit can be a swaddling alternative. The advantage of using this is that the baby is comfortable but can still feel warm.
Whether parents choose swaddling or its alternatives, it must be noted that all of these should be stopped when they start to roll.
