Best Breastfeeding Positions

Whether you offer baby
the breast or bottle, we will help you past the feeding and nursing roadblocks. You can learn how to breastfeed by trying out four popular breast feeding positions (cradle, crosscradle, side lying and football) to find the best one for you and baby. For mums who are bottle feeding, get basic tips on how to choose a formula and other ways to position your new born.
Few mums think breast feeding comes naturally and they get put to the test in those first days and weeks. “It is supposed to be the most beautiful time in your life, yet you are full of insecurities, not knowing if you are doing it right.” Says Irene Zoppi, RN, a certified lactation consultant outside Boston, and a clinical education specialist with Medela. Mums who choose the bottle have questions too.
But relax, feeding your baby is a process you will soon master. In time you will both fall into a rhythm.
The Cradle: Sit with baby lengthwise across your abdomen with your elbow supporting his head and your hand supporting his bottom. Your other hand supports the breast. This is a common position for older babies who can easily latch.
The Cross Cradle: Lay baby on her side, well supported. (Consider a nursing pillow) and touching you. If you are feeding on your left breast, use your right hand to support baby’s body and your left hand to support her head. Your fingers support the left breast.
Side-Lying Position: To feed on the left breast, lie on your left side with your back supported. Lay baby on her side facing you. Her chest against yours. Your right arm will support her head bringing her toward your breast. Some mothers are more comfortable with the baby supported in the crook of their arm. It is a popular hold during first feeding and at night. “This position is a cinch when your baby wakes you in the night or in the morning when you are already lying down. But before trying this position, it is best if baby can latch first.
The Football Hold: Hold baby at your side face up and lengthwise, supported by pillows. If nursing on your right side, use your right arm to support baby at your side and guide her head to your breast. It is great for beginners.” It is an easy hold so you could concentrate on the latching and then tinker with mastering other positions. This hold is also a helpful option after a caesarean section.