Breastfeeding Positions
There are many different positions in which to breastfeed, and you must find those which suit you and your baby. However, in the first two weeks you will need to guide your baby to ensure good breastfeeding positions and latch so he or she feeds properly.
Start off by sitting comfortably in an upright position, with as many pillows on hand as you will need. Put the baby on the pillow or your lap, depending on how low your breasts are, and turn your baby in to face you lying on his or her side — tummy to tummy. It is almost impossible to breastfeed with your baby’s head turned. When you latch the baby to your breast, bring him or her to you, not the other way around. When supporting the breast, make sure your hands are away from the nipple and not obstructing the baby’s latch.
The Cradle Hold
This is a common breastfeeding position and works well when the baby has established a good latch. Cradle your baby in your arm with the baby’s head in the bend of your elbow. Support your baby’s body with your arm. Use your other hand to support your breast. Cuddle your baby close, facing your breast, with your baby’s tummy and knees touching your abdomen.
The Modified Cradle
This is a modified cradle position and is the best position to start out with as it’s easier to establish a good latch. The important part here is to hold the baby by the neck and shoulders, not just the head, so that the baby’s head is slightly tilted back, ensuring a better latch.
The Football Hold
The football hold works well also for many women, particularly those women with large breasts, women with flat inverted nipples, or after a cesarean section birth. This position is also the most favored with women who are nursing twins. Hold your baby at your side, resting on your arm. Use a pillow to support your arm and to raise the baby to the level of your breast. Hold your baby’s head in the palm of your hand with the baby’s legs tucked in behind your arm by your side.
Lying Down
Lying down is a good position to learn in order to get some sleep while you breastfeed. This is also a good position to use after a cesarean section or with an older baby. Lie down on your side, supporting your back and head with pillows. Turn your baby on to his or her side to face you, with your baby’s mouth at your nipple. Bring your baby to your breast, with the baby’s tummy and knees touching your abdomen. Place a rolled up towel or small rolled blankets behind your baby to prevent the baby from rolling onto his or her back.