Here are 6 positions to breastfeed your baby

How do you know what positions to breastfeed your baby? While producing milk may come naturally during pregnancy and post delivery, knowing how to breastfeed your baby in different positions may not feel so “natural”.

Many new moms just aren’t sure how to hold their baby while breastfeeding. It can feel awkward trying to support the baby’s head, keeping those little hands out of the way of the nipple all while trying to hold your breast to latch the baby. You feel like you need 5 more hands and you’re left feeling frustrated and defeated.

But proper positioning is essential in order for the baby to take in enough milk, to prevent nipple soreness and cracking, and for breastfeeding to be an overall pleasant experience for you and baby. I tell my clients all the time, practice makes perfect. With some practice and patience , you will feel much more comfortable with holding and positioning. Soon, you will be able to do it with your eyes closed, literally!

There is no right or wrong breastfeeding position. You just need to find one that feels most comfortable for you and your baby. But there are some that are best used for certain situations. Learn which one is best for your situation or give all 6 positions to breastfeed your baby a try to see which feels most comfortable.

Here are 6 positions to breastfeed your baby

Biological or laid back position

This position is especially great in the first two hours of birth when baby is most alert and using their instincts to crawl to the breast to self attach. This position requires patience. Just sit back, relax and watch your baby lead the way! Your baby will root, lick around and bob his or her head until he or she latches correctly. It may takes several times for him or her to latch, but they will get it with time to explore. You will need to gently support the head and neck. Be careful not to force the head to the breast as he or she will push back against you and might become frustrated.

Cross cradle position

I highly recommend this position in the first couple weeks. It gives you much better control to put the baby right where he or she needs to be to get a proper latch. Again, be careful not to push on the back of your baby’s head, but to support the back of the neck and shoulders. Place a breastfeeding pillow or a regular pillow under your elbow or under your baby for support to ensure baby is close enough to the breast.

Cradle position

This position is the most common and may feel the most natural. This position is best used after you and your baby have mastered a proper latch and aren’t “practicing”. It can also be used after the baby has already latched and sucking in the cross cradle position as shown above. Just leave the baby in the same position, but switch your hands. You can then relax your arms, and the baby’s head will rest in the bend of your arm. A support pillow is recommended for this position as well placed under the baby or under your elbows for support.

Football position

This is a great position if you have had a c-section and you are afraid the baby may kick near your surgical incision. This position also gives you more control similar to the cross cradle. Place the support pillow under the baby to again ensure he or she is close enough for a proper latch.

Side-lying position

This position is beneficial if you have had a c-section but also helpful if you are especially tired and have been up many times during the night. You can lay down and rest while your baby nurses. The baby can also be turned the opposite direction with his or her head facing yours.

Australian hold (or saddle hold)

This position is less common but is very useful in certain circumstances. Older babies do well in this position when they get too big for some of the other positions. It is also recommended to use this position for an overactive let down reflex. If you notice your milk is coming out with force and your baby is showing signs of discomfort such as coughing, choking, and and pulling off the breast, then your let down may be too forceful. Try using this position as it may help with these symptoms.

Practice these 6 positions to breastfeed your baby! Soon you will feel more comfortable with holding your baby and learning what feels best. Whichever position you choose, just make sure you are comfortable and relaxed.

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Here are 6 positions to breastfeed your baby

Here are 6 positions to breastfeed your baby

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