Why the M-Position Matters: Babywearing and Healthy Hips
Babywearing offers countless benefits—supporting connection, soothing unsettled babies, and allowing caregivers to get on with daily life while keeping their baby close. But beyond the emotional and practical advantages, babywearing can also play a role in supporting healthy physical development—particularly when it comes to a baby’s hips.
Understanding Hip Dysplasia
Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) refers to a spectrum of conditions where a baby’s hip joint doesn’t form properly. In some cases, the ball of the femur (thigh bone) may be loose within the socket, or the socket itself may be shallow. DDH can be present at birth or develop in the weeks and months afterwards. It is more common in girls, breech-born babies, and those with a family history.
While many cases resolve on their own, undiagnosed or untreated hip dysplasia can lead to long-term issues with walking, joint pain, or early arthritis. This is why healthy hip positioning from birth is so important.
Why Positioning Matters
Orthopaedic specialists and organisations such as the International Hip Dysplasia Institute (IHDI) emphasise that how we carry babies during their early months can affect hip development. In particular, hip extension (when a baby’s legs dangle straight down or are held together) may place stress on the developing joint.
In contrast, holding a baby with hips flexed and spread apart—the so-called M-position—supports natural joint alignment and reduces risk of dislocation. This is how babies often rest when lying on their back with their knees pulled up, or when being carried on the caregiver’s front or hip.
The M-Position in Baby Carriers
The “M-position” describes how a baby’s bottom is lower than their knees, with thighs supported and spread apart. This resembles the fetal tuck, and it’s also the position babies instinctively assume when picked up. When supported properly in this posture, the femoral head is well seated in the hip socket, encouraging healthy joint development.
In babywearing, this position is achieved by using a wide-based carrier that supports the baby from knee to knee, with fabric forming a seat beneath the thighs and bottom. The baby’s spine is rounded in a gentle C-shape, and their legs are held in a squatted, flexed position.
By contrast, narrow-based carriers allow the baby’s legs to dangle straight down, offering minimal thigh support. This forces the hips into extension and increases pressure on the hip socket, which is not ideal—especially in the first six months when the hip joint is still developing.
Babywearing Can Support Healthy Hips—When Done Right
Carrying your baby in arms naturally promotes the M-position, especially when they rest on your hip or chest with legs tucked around you. Similarly, baby wraps, slings, and ergonomic carriers that support the thighs and encourage spread-squat positioning can help replicate this posture and reduce the risk of DDH.
It’s important to note that babywearing does not cause hip dysplasia. Instead, when done with awareness and using appropriate carriers, it can actively support optimal hip development—especially when parents are informed about positioning and carrier choice.
Choosing a Hip-Healthy Carrier
When selecting a baby carrier, look for:
A wide seat base that supports the baby’s thighs from knee to knee
The ability to position baby high and snug, with their bottom lower than their knees
Adjustable panel width or insert options for younger babies
Support for the natural curve of baby’s spine and head
Certification or recommendation by hip health organisations, where possible
What About Carriers Marketed as “Forward Facing”?
Many parents are drawn to front-facing carriers so their baby can “see the world.” While these can be used briefly once a baby has strong head and torso control, it’s essential they still allow good hip positioning. If the forward-facing position causes the legs to dangle or prevents the M-position, it's best to limit use or avoid it altogether. Alternative positions, like hip or back carrying, offer excellent visibility and maintain optimal posture.
Final Thoughts
In the Southern Natural Parenting Network, we believe in informed, responsive babywearing. That means understanding how your baby’s body is developing and choosing carriers that nurture that development—not hinder it. The M-position isn’t just about comfort—it’s about giving your baby the best start with healthy hips and safe support.
Whether you’re wrapping your newborn or hiking with a toddler, babywearing can be both joyful and beneficial—when done with care and knowledge.
