When you think about breastfeeding, you probably picture yourself cradling your baby in your arms. While this position may feel the most comfortable or natural to you, there are a variety of positions that offer different benefits for your baby. Our IBCLC friend, Clara Day, shares her expert insights on these positions to help you find what works best for you and your baby.
Cradle Position
The cradle position is often the most comfortable and natural. Hold your baby in your arms, with their head resting in the crook of your elbow on the same side as the breast you are nursing from. Your baby should face you, with their head aligned with their shoulders. This common position is suitable for babies of all ages.
Cross-Cradle Position
The cross-cradle position is similar to the cradle position. Instead of resting your baby’s head in your elbow, hold the base of their head/neck with the opposite hand of the breast you are nursing from. Use your other hand to support your breast. This position gives you better control if your baby is having difficulty latching in the traditional cradle position.
Laid-Back Position
In the laid-back position, recline and rest your baby on your belly, lying tummy to tummy. This position offers the most skin-to-skin contact. Clara recommends this position for moms with a milk oversupply or overactive letdown, as reclining uses gravity to slow the letdown and helps your baby pull the milk from your breasts.
Side-Lying Position
The side-lying position is ideal for resting while breastfeeding, provided you follow safe sleep guidelines. This position is more suitable for older babies who have already established successful breastfeeding, as it can be tricky to latch a newborn. Lay on your side on a flat surface, with your baby facing you. The breast closest to the surface will be the side you nurse from. Remember to avoid falling asleep and to place your baby back in their bassinet or crib when they’re done.
Football Position
The football position is great for smaller babies, as they feel more secure. Hold your baby at your side, supporting the base of their head/neck with your hand on the same side. Use your other hand to support your breast. This position is excellent for babies who need more help with latching and provides good skin-to-skin contact and control. It’s also ideal for C-section moms, as it keeps the baby off your incision site, reducing pressure and pain.
Upright/Koala Position
In the upright or koala position, sit while your baby straddles one or both of your legs, facing you. This position is optimal for older babies who are easily distracted and have difficulty sitting still for an adequate feeding. It can also be more comfortable for you, as holding a growing baby in some other positions can be challenging.
Comfort and Support
The most important aspect of positioning is ensuring both you and your baby are comfortable. Some babies may prefer certain positions, and some may feel more natural to you. Use pillows to support your neck, back, and arms as needed. Nursing pillows are great tools to provide support and comfort, and they come in various styles, shapes, colors, and fabrics to meet your needs and preferences.
Get Personalized Support from Clara
If you need support in finding the most optimal positions for you and your baby, visit Clara’s website at thebabybarista.com. If your insurance qualifies, you can get 6 free sessions with Clara to support you and your breastfeeding journey.
Enhance Your Breastfeeding Journey
In addition to mastering breastfeeding positions, our Le Lolo Colored Nipple Shield can further aid your breastfeeding experience by providing comfort and protection. Our Nipple Shield Sticker ensures you always have a perfect latch, reducing stress and making breastfeeding easier.
For more expert tips and personalized advice, trust Clara Day, our IBCLC friend, and elevate your breastfeeding experience. For more information visit her website www.thebabybarista.com.