What it is
Breastfeeding positions are ways to hold the baby at the breast. The classics are cradle, cross-cradle, the football hold with the baby tucked under your arm, side-lying in bed, laid-back nursing with you reclined, and the koala hold with the baby upright on your thigh. Each changes the angle of the baby's head and how much of your body carries the weight.
What's typical
Cross-cradle and football give the most control in the first weeks, when the baby's neck is wobbly. Football is often easiest after a cesarean. Side-lying is the night-feed favorite once the latch is solid. Laid-back helps babies who fight the breast and mothers with a fast letdown. Most mothers settle on two or three positions by six weeks.
What's known
La Leche League and the NHS teach that position matters less than the principles: baby close, body in a straight line, nose to nipple, head free to tip back.
What helps
- Pillows under your arms, feet flat, back supported. Set up before you latch.
- Learn side-lying in daylight, with help, before you need it at 3 a.m.
- Switch positions when a spot on the breast feels full or sore.
When to call someone
- Todayevery position hurts through the whole feed.
- At your next visitthe baby feeds well in only one position, or you have neck, back, or wrist pain from feeding.
Who helps
Tools: Feeding Prep
Related
- Getting a deep latchFeeding Your Baby
- Breastfeeding after a cesareanFeeding Your Baby
- Back, neck, and shoulder pain from feeding and carryingPostpartum: Your Body
- Oversupply and forceful letdownFeeding Your Baby
What mothers here say
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Sources
- La Leche League International — Positioning and latching
- NHS — Breastfeeding positions
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