Lifting your baby from the cot, feeding in awkward positions, carrying the car seat and bending over the changing table. Life with a new baby asks a lot of your body, and pain can creep in. There are ways to make the tougher days a little easier.

Why pain is common with a new baby

Caring for a baby involves lots of lifting, bending and carrying, often hundreds of times a day. Your baby also gets heavier every week. On top of that, broken sleep can make you more sensitive to discomfort.

Many new parents notice aches in their back, neck, shoulders and wrists, especially at the base of the thumb from lifting under the baby’s arms.

Lifting and carrying

Small changes can take some of the load off. Bringing your baby close before lifting, bending your knees, and using both hands can help. Swapping sides when carrying spreads the load.

Your wrists and thumbs

Lifting your baby with your thumbs spread wide can strain your wrists. Scooping your baby up with your palms facing up, under their bottom and back, can be kinder on your thumbs.

Looking after yourself

It’s easy to put your own needs last with a new baby. Resting when you can, accepting help, and doing gentle movement can all help on the days when pain is louder.

Noticing your patterns

Your VIDA pain check-in can help you see whether pain changes with tiredness or certain tasks.

Something to try this week

Try lifting your baby with your palms facing up, scooping under their bottom and back, and notice how your wrists feel.

What to take away

• Bring your baby close before lifting.
• Scoop with palms up to protect your wrists.
• Swap sides when carrying.
• Accept help and rest when you can.

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