So much of being a new mom is instinctual. It can feel like your body just knows what to do, even if you’ve never done it before.
Yet one thing that takes a surprising amount of practice is breastfeeding. It might seem self-explanatory — what is there to do besides hold your babe up to your nipple, and let them do their thing, right?
But the truth is that figuring out which positions for breastfeeding works best for you and your little one takes time. You might request help from a lactation consultant or another healthcare provider. Either way, figuring out your let-down doesn’t need to be a downer; some of these best breastfeeding positions might come in clutch.
Breastfeeding Positions
From cradle hold to football hold, there are a few different breastfeeding positions you can try (trust us: they make nursing sound like much more of a contact sport than it is).
Bring your baby close, and let’s take a ride to the lactation station — all aboard!
Cradle Hold
Possibly the most popular breastfeeding position, cradle hold, is as simple as it sounds. Begin by laying your little one across your lap, with their head resting on your forearm. Your baby’s nose should face your nipple, and their hip, shoulder, and ear should all be aligned.
Your arm and tummy will be fully supporting the weight of your baby. (Keep in mind that older babies generally don’t need as much body support as newborns do.)
If you’ve had a cesarean, this may not be the comfiest way to feed since your babe will be lying near the scar. Nursing should be as relaxing as possible, so don’t hesitate to try a few of these good positions until you figure out what’s best for you.
Other tips for the cradle hold: Choose a comfy seat with armrests, or use pillows and blankets to provide support to your arms — you might be here for a while!
Leaning forward too much while nursing can give you a backache, so it’s also a good idea to prop your feet up on an ottoman or cushions while in the cradle hold to prevent leaning. Yes, lean back and relax … as much as possible.
Cross-Cradle Hold
As a slight variation on the cradle hold, try this one! The cross-cradle position is nearly the same, except you’ll be holding your babe with the arm opposite the nipple you choose to feed with. Your hand will support your baby’s head rather than supporting the baby’s body as in the cradle hold.
Switching between the cradle and cross-cradle hold can be a good way to alleviate soreness or stiffness in your arms while nursing.
Football Hold/Clutch Hold
For moms who had a C-section, have large breasts, or simply can’t get enough of ESPN, this one’s for you. We’re talking about the football hold (or clutch hold).
In this position, everything is happening on one side of your body — whatever nipple you choose, you’ll use the closest arm to cradle your baby, supporting their head with your hand. Your baby’s back will rest on your forearm, and you can use your other hand to support your breast or hold your nipple up to your baby’s mouth if necessary.
Imagine cradling a football in one arm, and you’ve got a pretty good idea of what this position looks like. (Of course, the football you’ll be snuggling with is just a tiny bit more precious than most!)
This is a good option if you’re nursing twins since you can hold each baby in one arm.
Reclined/Laid-Back Position
Whether you’re feeding a newborn, breasts are on the smaller side or want to lay back and relax, laid-back breastfeeding — also known as the reclined position — is a great option.
You’ll want to be semi-reclined on a bed or couch, with your baby’s whole body rested against yours. Use pillows or cushions to support your body, especially your lower back. The reclined position is all about relaxation, and the last thing you want is to develop chronic backache.
Once you’re comfy and your baby has a good latch, you can sit back and relax — your babe will take it from here!
Side-Lying Position
Similar to laid-back breastfeeding, the side-lying position allows you to get a bit more comfy while feeding. Lay on your side, facing your baby, so that you’re tummy-to-tummy. Use the lower arm you’re lying on to prop up your baby’s head and cradle them. Your free hand can be used to guide your nipple to your baby’s mouth.
One important thing to note about the side-lying position is that excess bedding bunched around you and your babe can pose a potential suffocation hazard. Experts advise against feeding in this position while on a recliner, couch, or anywhere where there might be potentially hazardous cushioning or bedding.
Breastfeeding Tips and Tricks
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different breastfeeding positions until you find the one that’s best for you. Nursing is an intimate experience, but it’s also something you’ll be doing a LOT of for the next few months. It’s important that you’re able to find a routine that’s comfortable and convenient for you.
Getting a Good Latch
Aside from finding the right breastfeeding position, being able to get a good latch is key. Maybe you feel like it should be totally instinctive, but the truth is that breastfeeding problems are totally normal (and common!), especially during the early days.
If you’re struggling to get a good latch, try the following tips:
- Use your nipple to tickle your baby’s lips. This will naturally cause them to open their mouth.
- Make sure your baby’s neck is straight and that their chin isn’t tucked in. Your nipple should be aimed toward your baby’s top lip.
- Move somewhere quiet and calm, and snuggle your little one skin-to-skin.
- If the latch doesn’t feel quite right, or if it hurts, use a clean finger to break the latch and try again.
Investing in the Right Products
One of our favorite nursing-friendly pieces is this Nurse-to-Errands Onesie, AKA your breastfeeding BFF. Made with luxe jersey fabric and flattering details like a tapered leg and ruched sides, this onesie is both ultra-comfy and ultra-functional.
Another breastfeeding essential is a high-quality nursing bra, like this Essential Nursing and Pumping Bra. This seamless and wireless bra includes a ton of thoughtful details, such as a pull-down design, nursing clasps, and a fabric overlap in the front to allow for discreet pumping wherever you are. Plus, the ribbed modal fabric comes in five fun colorways — TBH, we want them all.
Finally, the ultimate solution for sore nipples: our favorite Nipple + Lip Rescue Balm, made with mango butter and superfruit extracts to soothe and moisturize your tender nips. Breastfeeding can be amazing, but it can also be painful! With this balm in your back pocket, you won’t have to worry about irritation or chafing ever again.
Breastfeeding might be a one-woman job, but having the right products on hand can make your life a WHOLE lot easier. Specifically, nursing-friendly apparel and nursing bras can allow you to nurse on the go, in public, and without having to take apart your whole outfit — sounds like a win to us.
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