First Time Mum .... Help me negotiate the sling minefield

[LisMcA]

I'm 20weeks with my first and have been advised to try out some slings now before my bump gets too big.

I have no idea where to start

The things it think I have to take into account are:-

1. It needs to be suitable for me and DH. I'm 5'1 he's 6'2
2. I am very well blessed in the chest department, without being pregnant!
3. I have issues with a reoccurring injury in one shoulder that may be aggrivated by a sling but I don't know.
4. We need to be able get baby in or out without assistance.

Oh wise MNetters help me out please!!! :o

I would go with a woven wrap - a very long piece of material, that gives a little but isn't too stretchy. That will fit your first criteria the best, and can be used in different styles for the baby at different ages, and so you can find the position most comfortable for you (probably something symmetrical that doesn't pull on your shoulder).

The downside is that these wraps are long and some people find them very hard to wrap around yourself - although many women have no problems with this.

It's also possible that you and your dh don't get on with the same sling.

Can you go to a Sling Meet to try them out?

I'd second both recommendations. Stretch wrap sling... tricky to start with but a life-saver once you've got the hang of it. Practice with a doll before baby arrives, and there are plenty of videos on YouTube to help.

A slingmeet is also a great idea.

DO NOT get a ring sling or a Baby Bjorn!

I was thinking of getting a ring sling - what's wrong with them, Annie?

No not a ring sling, I've used loads of slings and found the ring sling hardest to get comfortable and the most likely to pull on my shoulders, because it has uneven weight distribution. They look lovely though. It's a shame my one is still unused.

Some people swear by them, I found mine very uncomfortable and DD1 once fell out of it while I was adjusting the straps.

Also, if you have shoulder problems, it's probably not a good idea to get a sling that puts all the weight on your shoulders. A wrap sling spreads the weight across your back, front and hips too.

A good quality soft ringsling can be very comfortable if worn correctly.

I agree that it does put more weight upon one shoulder, but for a tiny baby, this shouldn't be a problem.

I can carry my 29lb DD in a ringsling for up to an hour without too many problems.

So it is an option.

However, I use a woven wrap the majority of the time as I find that the most flexible and comfortable type of sling. My husband also uses one happily.

I agree that getting to a Slingmeet would be a great idea, as then you can see some in action and have a chat with mum's who use them regularly.

I use a slingeasy which is a ring sling and it is great, baby is very comfy in it and you just pop it over your head and job done. I love mine.

You may find it very worthwhile to look at Sling Guide - written for people in just your position :)

Thanks everyone! Will go off and do some research.