How To Do Every Breastfeeding Position

When you’re first starting out breastfeeding it can be tricky to find a position that is comfortable for you and baby.

It's like trying to find a needle in a haystack, except the needle is a comfortable position and the haystack is a squirming, milk-hungry bundle of joy! 

But don't worry, you've got this!  With a little bit of patience and some trial and error, you'll soon find the breastfeeding sweet spot that works best for you.

We've got all the breastfeeding positions you can possibly think of, from the classic cradle hold to the funky football hold, so you and your tiny human can find your breastfeeding groove.

CRADLE HOLD

Ah, the cradle hold – it’s like the little black dress of breastfeeding because it’s the most classic breastfeeding position. It’s also known as the “Madonna Hold,” where your baby is cradled against you while you nurse

How To Do The Cradle Hold:

To nail this move, make sure your baby is belly-to-belly with you and positioned just a tad below your bosom. You can either cradle your bundle of joy with your arm or bring in the big guns (aka a pillow) for extra support. And consider using your free hand to hold and shape your breast to guide your baby to latch on like a champ.

Pros:

The cradle hold is like the old friend you can always count on. It's familiar and easy to replicate, so you can bust it out anytime, anywhere.

Cons:

it might not be the most supportive position, especially for a newborn or a preemie. But hey, don't let that discourage you! Every mom and baby duo is different, so if the cradle hold doesn't feel like your jam, there are plenty of other moves to try.

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CROSS CRADLE HOLD

Alright, it's time to get wild and try out the cross cradle hold! It's like the cradle hold's cooler, more supportive cousin. 

How To Do The Cross Cradle Hold:

To get into this position, make sure your baby is belly-to-belly with you and then support them across their back with the arm opposite the breast they're feeding from. And don't forget to bring in the backup hand for some breast-shaping action.  You can even shape it into a "C" or "U" hold to help baby latch better.

Pros:

The cross cradle hold is like the superhero version of the cradle hold. It's extra helpful for younger babies who need some extra support and breast shaping. 

Cons:

It can be physically taxing to support your breast for extended periods of time. So if your arm feels like it's about to fall off, don't worry, it's totally normal. Just take a break and come back stronger. 

FOOTBALL HOLD

Alright, let's talk about the Football Hold. No, we're not talking about the Super Bowl or scoring touchdowns, we're talking about holding your baby like a football. Yes, you heard that right!

How To Do The Football Hold:

In this hold, you'll be holding your little one snug against the side of your body, slightly below your breast area, and gently moving them towards your breast. Their chin should touch the lower part of your breast as they latch on. It's like a little huddle between you and your baby!

Pros:

The football hold is great for babies who need extra support, and it gives you a front row seat to see your little one latching on like a champ. Plus, it's perfect for nursing twins, tandem feeding, or nursing after a C-section.

Cons:

Sometimes the positioning can feel foreign or difficult to manage. But don't worry, practice makes perfect!  Just a few practice sessions with a breastfeeding helper, or even in front of a mirror, can do wonders. 

SIDE-LYING POSITION

If you're looking for a breastfeeding position that doubles as a nap time position, look no further than the Side-Lying Position! Get ready to channel your inner Sleeping Beauty – you and your baby can snuggle up in bed and drift off while still getting in some quality feeding time. 

How To Do Side-Lying Position:

It's like a cozy little breastfeeding slumber party. Lie on your side on a bed (cleared of any extra pillows or blankets for safety). Position your baby slightly below your breast, facing you, and snug to your body. Latch on as you normally would. You can also try latching on while sitting up and then slowly making your way into this position.

Pros:

This position is perfect for tired moms who need a break, and it's great for nighttime feedings to help you and your baby drift back to sleep.

Cons:

It might take a few attempts to get the positioning just right, but don't worry - with a little practice and maybe a helping hand, you'll be snoozing and feeding in no time.

LAID BACK BREASTFEEDING POSITION

Also known as “biological nurturing,” this position is like a breastfeeding vacation, using gravity and your baby's natural instincts to get the job done. Get ready to lean back, relax, and breastfeed like a boss!

How To Do Laid Back Breastfeeding:

First, find a comfy spot - think recliner or pillow paradise. Now, get in position by leaning back and letting gravity do its thing.  Place your baby on their tummy, against your belly, just below your breasts. Let your baby's natural instincts take over. The best part? Your baby gets to do all the work! They'll be rooting and scooting their way to the perfect latch. You can lend a helping hand if you want, but why not let them show off their skills?

Pros:

This position is perfect for those newbie nursers or any little ones who need a little extra coaxing. 

Cons:

But be warned, if you're feeding twins, this might not be the position for you (unless you've got some serious multitasking skills). And if you're recovering from a C-section, just be sure to protect your precious scar from any accidental kicks.

KOALA POSITION / UPRIGHT BREASTFEEDING

Are you ready to bring out your inner koala and try a new breastfeeding position? Introducing the Koala position - it's like a trip to the Australian outback without ever leaving your home!

How To Do The Koala Position:

Your baby straddles your thigh or hip, sitting upright as they come to the breast, like a true koala bear! This position is perfect for older babies with good head and trunk control, but don't worry - you can still give it a go with a newborn if you support their little body and head.

Pros:

The Koala position is especially great for those pesky cases of reflux, if you're dealing with an overactive letdown, or if you have a bit of an oversupply situation. 

Cons:

It may take a bit of practice to get the hang of it, especially for younger babies who are still learning the ropes. Just make sure your baby's head is slightly below your breast and tilted back when they latch on.

The Best Breastfeeding Position For Specific Situations

What are good breastfeeding positions for oversupply?

Positions where your baby is held in more upright positions, such as the upright/koala hold and the laid back breastfeeding position, can help with oversupply.

What are helpful breastfeeding positions for colic?

Simply trying and changing breastfeeding positions can help with colic. The laid back breastfeeding position (skin to skin) can be calming for babies. Breastfeeding in a sling or carrier using the cradle position or upright/koala position, can also help.

What is the best breastfeeding position after a C-section?

Football hold is wonderful after a C-section, as it allows you to position your baby away from your healing scar.

What are some breastfeeding positions for gassy babies?

Upright positioning such as the koala hold and laid back breastfeeding are great for gassy babies. Whatever position you are in, make sure you have a strong, deep latch and that your baby’s head is tilted slightly back while latching. This will ensure that the milk goes “down the hatch” smoothly, reducing gassiness.

What breastfeeding positions can help with reflux?

Any upright position (koala or laid back) can help with reflux. Using a cross-cradle hold can help as well, as it allows you to shape and support your breast for better latching.

What are the best breastfeeding positions for newborns?

Laid back breastfeeding as well as the cross cradle hold, are wonderful, supportive positions for newborns.

What are the most helpful breastfeeding positions for babies with shallow latch?

Both the football hold and cross cradle hold allow you to watch closely as your baby latches, shape and support your breast, and firmly support your baby’s body—all of which can help with shallow latching.

What are some breastfeeding positions for premature babies?

Laid back breastfeeding, combined with skin-to-skin, is great for premature babies.

What is an easy breastfeeding position for a large breasted mother?

Laid back breastfeeding is great for larger breastfed mothers because it allows you to fully open up your chest area and can provide a natural lift for your breasts. The cross cradle hold can also be helpful, as it allows you to lift and support your breast while latching.

What breastfeeding positions can you use when out and about?

The traditional cradle hold is usually easiest for moms when they are out and about, as it can be done while sitting in any chair and can usually be done discreetly.

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