Different breastfeeding holds may work better than others for you and baby.
From football hold to cradle hold to laid-back, these are the breastfeeding positions nursing moms will want to know about.
Making milk might come naturally, but the delivery of it from breast to belly takes a little know-how and a lot of practice.
For many new moms and babies, the first attempts at breastfeeding are haphazard and hapless, at best. But proper positioning is essential in helping your newborn latch on the right way, as well as preventing nipple soreness and other breastfeeding problems.
With some trial-and-error, you’ll find the breastfeeding position that works best for you. And in no time, you’ll be a pro at breastfeeding your baby.
How to hold baby when breastfeeding
Start by placing your baby on one side, toward your breasts. Make sure your baby’s whole body is facing your chest, with his ear, shoulder and hip in a straight line.
Side-lying position
This position is a good choice when you’re breastfeeding in the middle of the night.
To breastfeed baby in a side-lying position, do the following:
• Both you and your baby should lie on your sides, tummy to tummy.
Also known as the clutch hold, the football hold position is especially useful if you have:
Twins
- Had a C-section and want to avoid placing your baby against your abdomen
- Large breasts
- A small or premature baby
To breastfeed baby in a football hold position, do the following:
- Position your baby at your side, facing you, with his legs tucked under your arm (yes, like a football) on the same side as the breast you’re nursing from.
- Support your baby’s head with the same hand, and use your other hand to cup your breast as you would for the cradle hold.
Laid-back position (“biological nursing”)
