Infant environmental transition system and method

Abstract

An infant environmental transition system and method provides an infant with a controlled, healthy transition from an intrauterine environment to the extrauterine environment, and includes a housing within which the infant is supported by a soft, form-fitting bolster system. The bolster system is comprised of one or more pads, or bolsters, arranged such that they can be placed about an infant. A gentle but firm pressure is exerted on the infant by the bolster or bolsters through the use of straps or by the use of a U-shaped spring covered partially or completely by a bolster or bolsters. This pressure offers a reduction of an infant's stress level, as well as physical stabilization of the infant. Environmental conditions provided within the housing include simulated motions, sounds and tactile sensations resembling the intrauterine environment. A suspension and drive system controls the degree of movement imparted to the housing and to an infant supported therein. The resulting motion closely approximates the motion experienced by the fetus while the mother is walking. The sound profile simulates intrauterine cardiovascular and gastrointestinal sounds. The system simulates day and night variations in motions and sounds, integrates changes to the environment over time toward the natural extrauterine environment, and may respond to infant activity or other inputs at various intervals.