Ashleigh Loubser is a Chiropractor and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) based in Devonport, North-West Tasmania. With over a decade of experience supporting mums and babies, she’s got a special interest in perinatal and paediatric care—and as a mum of three herself (currently aged 6, 4, and 1), she brings both clinical expertise and real-life parenting cred to the table. She recently trialled the HipSurfer with her toddler and shared her take on how it fits into the daily juggle of parenting, pain relief, and veggie gardening (yep, really).

What physical and emotional challenges do you see in new mums?

New mums and families with young children face a range of physical and emotional challenges, and every journey is unique. Physically, I often see mums struggling with back, neck, and shoulder pain from feeding and carrying their little ones, as well as lower back pain, pelvic instability or lingering discomfort from pregnancy and birth. Shoulder, wrist and hand issues are also common due to repetitive lifting and holding.

Emotionally, new parents often experience exhaustion, over-stimulation, and feelings of overwhelm as they navigate the transition into parenthood. Many mums I work with feel the weight of being constantly "on," whether it's breastfeeding, settling their baby, or simply adjusting to the demands of motherhood.

How did you hear about the HipSurfer and what were your first thoughts?

My younger sister purchased the HipSurfer and recommended it to me after she found it so helpful carrying her baby boy. My initial thought was “DAMN IT! Why wasn’t this available 6 years ago?!” 

I remember relying heavily on my traditional carrier for my first two daughters, however with my third, the carrier just wasn’t working for me. My son was a big boy, and I found I couldn’t use the old carrier with him for long as my back and pelvic floor couldn't handle it. By the time he was 6 months old I couldn’t use it at all, but of course he still needed to be carried (a lot), and that’s when the shoulder and arm strain kicked in. He was just too heavy for me to hold for longer periods, and the HipSurfer would have been a lifesaver at this point. I had seen other cross-body, sling-type carriers, however the chiropractor in me just felt like they might be nice for shorter periods, but would eventually lead to the same aches and pains from an unbalanced position. 

As a chiropractor, I have always seen women for postpartum pain related to long periods holding and carrying our babies, and the HipSurfer struck me as a genius way to support our bodies through this challenging time. 

Now that you’ve tried it—what’s your verdict?

My youngest is now a toddler, and while I wish I could rewind the clock and have one handy 6 months ago, the HipSurfer has been a game changer for our family. While my son is now walking and very much on the move, he still loves to be held and the ease with which I can now do this is amazing. No longer am I sore or irritable from the discomfort of holding him for longer periods.

It’s been great for those quick trips into the supermarket or for school pickup, but my real favourite place has been early summer mornings outside in the vegetable garden, my youngest on the HipSurfer munching on a freshly plucked carrot while I water the garden. 

When do you use it most in your daily routine?

Those chaotic times of day we can all relate to - the late afternoons, trying to cook dinner while an unhappy baby clings to your legs and your other children are hungry, tired or needing help with homework etc. This time of day alone has been made much easier, now that I can easily and comfortably tend to my baby while getting on with everything else that needs my attention.

Can the HipSurfer help with those challenges?
Absolutely. Carrying on one hip without support leads to long-term pain and postural issues. The HipSurfer redistributes weight evenly through your hips, taking the load off your shoulders, wrists, and spine.

For postpartum mums dealing with pelvic instability or ab separation, it reduces strain right where you need it most. It also works great as a mobile breastfeeding pillow—less arm fatigue, better latch, more comfort overall.

From a Chiropractor and IBLC perspective, could it help children with special needs or mobility challenges?

Yes, absolutely! I see many parents struggling with the strain that carrying their baby can place on their back, hips, shoulders, and wrists. Many of us naturally rest our child on one hip, which can lead to discomfort, imbalances, and even long-term postural issues, and for postpartum mums who may still be recovering from pregnancy-related pelvic instability or abdominal separation, reducing unnecessary strain is key.

By redistributing the weight across the hips rather than relying solely on one hip, the arms and the upper body, the HipSurfer provides a simple but effective solution to support the weight of the child and reduce the load on the parent's body. It also allows parents to hold their child closer in a more upright, supported position, or even help support their weight when trying to rock them to sleep - a game-changer for everyone!

By easing these common issues, your experience as a parent can be greatly improved, which in turn can really help reduce the mental and emotional load that parenthood can bring. 

I’ve also personally loved how the HipSurfer can be a helpful tool for breastfeeding mothers by acting as a supportive surface that reduces strain on the arms, shoulders, and back, especially when feeding on the go. By using it as a breastfeeding pillow, you can easily bring the baby to a comfortable height for a better latch while allowing mum to maintain better posture and reduce muscle fatigue and upper body strain. 

What would you say to parents thinking about buying one?

If you're constantly carrying your little one, the HipSurfer could be a game-changer for your comfort. Even if you’re not necessarily suffering from any discomfort or concern, it provides a comfortable, ergonomic and practical way to carry your child while reducing strain on your body—something that becomes especially important as your baby grows and gets heavier, and that can also contribute to your overall experience as a parent.

As a mum of three young kids, I know how much time we spend carrying our little ones, whether for cuddles, settling or just getting through the tasks of the day. Having a tool like the HipSurfer can make those everyday moments more comfortable and enjoyable, and be a great investment in your physical well-being while still keeping your little one close.

Curious about how the HipSurfer could lighten your parenting load?
Take a peek at the

or hit us up with your questions, we’re all ears (and very real about the chaos you're navigating).