Wednesday, July 6, 2011

Rebozos: What are they and how do you use them?


I've recently been doing some research on Rebozos and how to use them to help women in labor.  This is one of the tools that I am including in my doula bag for labor.  Here is some of the information that I have found on Rebozos.

What is is a Rebozo?
A Rebozo is a long shawl used in Mexican culture (as well as others) for warmth, for assistance in pregnancy and labor, as a child carrier, and for carrying heavy loads.

How is a Rebozo used in pregnancy and labor?
Rebozos have multi-purpose functions as pregnancy and labor tools. They can be used to help support a very pregnant belly, as a massage tool for lower back pain, and help with changing the position of a posterior positioned or even a breech baby. During labor a Rebozo is more commonly known to be used during the second stage, helping the mother push effectively and be in a position that can widen the pelvis. In not so technical terms it is called the "tug-of-war" position.

 Using the Rebozo in Pregnancy and Labor:

Article on using Rebozo to turn a breech baby.

Pulling on a Rebozo to aid in pushing during delivery.


Using Rebozo to support belly and relieve back pain during pregnancy (can also be used for belly binding in the postpartum by wrapping directly over belly and hips):



















"Sifting" with the Rebozo to move baby into an optimal position for delivery:


"Hip Squeeze" using the Rebozo as a comfort measure in labor:


 
Using the Rebozo for baby wearing:
The Rebozo is also often used in the postpartum as a baby carrier.  Below are a few instructional videos on useful ways to wrap the Rebozo for baby wearing.

Tying a Rebozo slip knot:


Basic baby carry using the Rebozo:
 


Hip carry for bigger kids using the Rebozo:
  

Newborn Front Cross Carry with Legs out:
 



Nursing Front Cross Cradle:


Nursing Upright Front Cross Carry:

Reinforced Rear Rebozo Rucksack Carry:



Additional ways to use the Rebozo for baby carrying can be found at www.wrapyourbaby.com

Share your favorite use for the Rebozo or link to a video or instructions for its use in the comments section.

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