As soon as a baby is born, they are swaddled and wrapped in a cozy blanket. Swaddling is an age-old practice of wrapping infants snugly in a blanket or cloth to give them a sense of security and comfort. Wrapping a baby up nice and snug in a blanket is believed to be similar to the sensation that babies feel when they are in the womb, and many parents have found it to be an effective way to soothe a crying baby. But why do babies like to be swaddled? Here are the most common reasons why swaddling is a comforting experience for newborns.
Security and Comfort
Swaddling provides a sense of security and comfort to newborns. In the womb, the baby is in a small, confined space and is constantly being held by the amniotic fluid. This is why newborns tend to feel comfortable and secure when they are swaddled tightly.
Newborns have a startle reflex that can cause them to wake up suddenly, causing them to cry. Swaddling can help to prevent this reflex from waking the baby up by keeping their arms and legs securely wrapped in the blanket. This can help the baby to sleep more soundly and for longer periods of time and reduce overall anxiety in newborns. The world can be a scary and overwhelming place for a newborn, and swaddling can help to provide a sense of familiarity and safety. The gentle pressure of the swaddle can provide a calming effect that can help to reduce a baby's anxiety and stress levels.
Temperature Regulation
Another huge benefit of swaddling is the regulation of a baby’s body temperature. Newborns are unable to regulate their own body temperature and are at risk of becoming too cold or overheating. Swaddling helps to regulate a baby's body temperature by providing an extra layer of insulation, keeping them warm and snug. This is especially important for premature babies, who are more vulnerable to temperature fluctuations.
There are a variety of ways you can keep a baby’s temperature at the proper level including maintaining a room temperature of 68°F (20°C) and 72°F (22.2°C). Especially if your home is on the cooler side, it’s also important to dress the baby appropriately, which is where swaddles come in!
Avoid Colic and Reflux
Although this is a lesser known benefit, swaddling can actually help to reduce colic and reflux. Colic is a common condition in newborns, characterized by excessive crying and fussiness. Reflux is also common in newborns and can cause discomfort and irritability. Swaddling can reduce the symptoms of colic and reflux by providing gentle pressure on the baby's tummy. This can help to soothe and calm the baby, making them less likely to cry and fuss.
Improve Sleep Quality
Having trouble getting your little one to sleep? Swaddling can help to promote better sleep in newborns. Newborns sleep for up to 16 hours a day, but they do not yet have a regular sleep-wake cycle. Swaddling can help promote better sleep in newborns by creating a cozy and secure sleeping environment. This can help to reduce the risk of the baby waking up due to environmental stimuli, such as noise or light.
Promote Bonding
Lastly, swaddling can help to promote bonding between the parent and the baby. The act of swaddling requires the parent to hold and touch their baby, which can promote bonding and attachment. Swaddling can also provide an opportunity for the parent to comfort and soothe their baby, which can help to build a strong emotional connection between the parent and the baby.
Despite the many benefits of swaddling, it is important to note that swaddling is not suitable for all babies. Some babies may find swaddling uncomfortable or restrictive, and it may not be suitable for babies with certain medical conditions. You should consult with a healthcare provider before swaddling your baby to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for your baby. As long as it’s safe for your baby, swaddling is an excellent way to provide comfort and improve a newborn’s quality of sleep (and life). If you’re just getting started with swaddling, a personalized swaddle blanket is a perfect addition to your baby’s closet!