impo i think a hab would be better from birth ... i know you can use them for preemies too and there are many different ways to carry a newborn in them . i have never used a mei tai, but ppl rate them , i have and ergo which i think is simialr to mei tei and carry G around in it , but i feel more secure in the HAB , when she is older i think the ergo's perfect ...

how sturdy is your back ?? i have tired these carriers :
tomy freestyle
sling (non adjust)
baby rock sling
HAB style wrap
ergo
baby bjorn

AND the only ones that i could use and still be able to walk at night were the HAB style and ergo ..
just take care of your back is you are baby wearing right from birth ..