Should newborns be placed in a hammock? Advantages and disadvantages of using a hammock for infants

Newborns with delicate bodies and weak immunity are always protected and cared for extensively by their parents. Nowadays, many parents have the habit of using hammocks for their newborns and are wondering whether it is suitable or not. AVA will help you address this question through the following article.

Advantages of placing newborns in a hammock:

Hammocks provide a comfortable and soothing environment for babies, leading to better sleep. The gentle rocking motion of the hammock can mimic the feeling of being in the mother’s womb, making the baby feel more secure during sleep.

The mesh design of the hammock cradles the baby, providing a sense of being held and protected, similar to being in the mother’s arms. It allows parents to easily place the baby in the hammock while attending to household chores.

Disadvantages of placing newborns in a hammock:

Despite the aforementioned advantages, health experts do not recommend using hammocks for newborns due to the following reasons:

Impact on motor development: Hammocks can affect the development of the baby’s motor skills, making them less flexible and less capable of recognizing objects.

Shaken baby syndrome: Parents should be aware that the baby’s nervous system is not fully developed, making them susceptible to brain injury if subjected to strong shaking.

Language disorders: Prolonged use of a hammock may lead to language disorders, delayed development, and reduced cognitive abilities in infants.

Impact on spine and thorax: The newborn’s spine is still soft and easily conforms to the hammock’s concave shape. Placing the baby in a hammock can lead to the risk of spinal distortion, affecting the thorax and organs such as the heart and lungs.

Nervous system suppression: Vigorous rocking of the hammock can cause the baby to feel anxious and nervous.

Underdeveloped muscles: The pressure on the baby’s neck and head in the hammock can hinder muscle development.

Dependency on the hammock: If the baby becomes accustomed to the hammock’s motion, they may become overly reliant on it for sleep, making it difficult for them to sleep without it.

Risk of falling and difficulty breathing: Babies placed in a hammock may easily fall or get startled, leading to potential hazards. Moreover, it can be challenging for babies to change positions and tilt their heads, posing breathing difficulties and risks.

Expert advice is to avoid using hammocks for newborns to minimize potential negative effects on their health and development as mentioned above. AVA hopes that these insights will help answer your questions about using hammocks for newborns and provide you with valuable information for taking care of your little one.

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