Editing Elimination communication (section)

== Benefits ==
According to ''The Diaper-Free Baby'' by Christine Gross-Loh, EC offers a wide range of advantages. Because EC lessens families' reliance on diapers, this helps reduce the environmental impact of discarding disposable diapers and/or washing cloth diapers, and saves families hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in disposable diapers. EC babies are free from the problems of conventional diapering such as [[Irritant diaper dermatitis|diaper rash]], diaper change battles, not being able to explore diapered parts of their bodies, vulnerability to [[urinary tract infection]]s, and potentially delayed or difficult potty training. Gross-Loh also reports that EC promotes a unique and wonderful bond between babies and caregivers.<ref name="auto">"The Diaper-Free Baby" by Christine Gross Loh (Los Angeles: Regan, 2007)</ref>

Parents report that the squat or "potty" position that they tend to use to hold their baby in order to go is very comfortable for the baby. The position aligns the [[Gastrointestinal tract|digestive tract]] and supports relaxation, as well as contraction of the [[pelvic floor]] muscles, helping babies to release their urine or stool and simultaneously build control of the urinary and anal [[sphincter]] muscles. This especially helps babies who are suffering from mild [[constipation]]. Many babies find defecating to be an unsettling process, especially as they transition to solid food. With EC, parents hold their infant in a supportive position as they defecate into the toilet or a suitable receptacle, offering loving emotional and physical support during this process.{{Citation needed|date=April 2021}}

Parents report benefits in three areas: for baby, parents and the environment. These are some of the main advantages:<ref>Boucke, 'Infant Potty Training: A Gentle and Primeval Method Adapted to Modern Living.' (White-Boucke Publishing, 2008)</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.parentingscience.com/infant-toilet-training.html |title=Infant toilet training: The scientific evidence |publisher=Parentingscience.com |date= |access-date=2014-02-20}}</ref>

'''For baby:'''
reduces incidence of nappy rash; more comfortable; encourages communication; helps relieve constipation and wind.

'''For parents:'''
cheaper; less washing; more hygienic; fewer leaking nappies; more confidence; greater bond with baby; another tool to soothe a crying baby.

'''For the environment:'''
reduces number of soiled and wet nappies sent to landfill; less washing of cloth nappies; solid waste treated via sewerage instead of going to landfill where it releases methane.