Text Size Small Text Size Medium Text Size Large TEXT SIZE

Breastfeeding Positions

Breastfeeding Positions
Hate it!
Dislike it!
Meh...
Like it!
Love it!

There is no "best" position for breastfeeding — it's easiest when both you and your baby are comfortable. But some positions can work better than others. Here we explore the basics of:

 

Some experts suggest alternating positions. That way, your baby won’t latch on and apply pressure at the same spot every time.

The Cradle Hold

Sit in a comfortable chair with support for your arms and back. Try not to hunch your shoulders. Support your breast with your hand in a cupped C-shape. Place your baby across your stomach, tummy to tummy.

Your baby's head should be in the bend of your elbow; and her mouth should be directly in front of your nipple. Use a pillow to support your arm.

If correctly positioned, your baby's body should form a straight line from her ear to her shoulder to her hip. Tuck her lower arm around your waist, out of the way.

The Football Hold

Like a running back cradles a football, you’ll cradle your baby under your arm. This lets you see if he is latching on properly. This position often is preferred by moms who:



  • Have large breasts

  • Are concerned about latch-on

  • Have a small or premature baby

  • Are sore from a cesarean birth

Place pillows at your side to support your elbow and your baby's bottom. Tuck him into the side of your waist. Place his head in the palm of your hand. Support the base of his head between your thumb and forefinger. If he doesn't seem comfortable, place a soft blanket between your hand and his head for padding.

The Cross-Cradle Hold

This position often is preferred by moms who are having trouble with latch-on, and by moms with small or premature babies. It lets you see the latch-on more clearly than the traditional cradle hold.

Hold your baby across your body in the arm opposite the breast from which she’ll be feeding. Her position will be the same as in the cradle hold, but you’ll use your other arm to hold her. Your baby should be level with your breast, with her body turned toward you. (Some mothers find they can tuck the baby's bottom into the crook of their arm.) When she opens her mouth wide, pull her onto the breast far enough that the tip of her nose, her cheeks, and her chin all are touching your breast.

Lying Down

This is a comfortable alternative position, especially at night or when sitting is uncomfortable.

Lie on your side, using one pillow to support your head and another along your back. Your head and neck should be comfortably propped up with pillows. Or lie on your side with one arm bent under your head and the other hand supporting your breast. Put a pillow or rolled-up blanket behind your baby's back. Lay your baby next to you on the bed so her mouth is opposite your nipple.

Your Position May Change Over Time

Even if one position does the trick at first, you may find that variation helps with back strain. As your baby grows, the tried-and-true football clutch may stop doing the trick. Many moms find different positions work better for older babies than for newborns.

You're living it, so share your experience.

Want to share your breastfeeding tips, trials, or triumphs?
Join the discussion! Visit our StrongMoms Forum >

Picture: Mom and Baby Laughing
Strong Moms Strong Connections
Hi, I am a mom for the second time, but many years between the two.  I had my first child when ...
Any advice for a second time mom, but many years d...
Latest post by dscooper3 9, 
9/2/2010 2:18:39 PM
Just wanted to see if there were anyother moms due in Feb.
Februrary moms???
Latest post by holmhn 5, 
9/2/2010 2:28:32 PM
Join the Conversation >
I Get What? Sweet!
Register with StrongMoms® for advice and cool swag*:
  • Monthly emails to help on your journey to momhood
  • Expert advice on baby care and nutrition
  • A stylish Similac® sling pack for you packed with goodies
  • Savings and special offers
  • Discussion boards for moms and dads alike
  • and more!
Sign Up >

*Offers may vary.
Available at participating hospitals.