Breastfeeding can be done in various postures. When you have your first child and are new to breastfeeding, you may want to try some of the common breastfeeding positions you’ve heard about or seen. Then, as your confidence grows, you can try different positions. You will quickly discover which ones are the most comfortable and practical for you and your child. For a better understanding of the positions, you can also join the Birth preparation classes offered by many online platforms.
Top breastfeeding and positions
You don’t have to breastfeed in just one position. Breastfeeding can be done while lying on your stomach, sitting and even standing. It doesn’t matter if you like a pose that you have or have never heard of before. You can breastfeed in any position, as long as you and the baby are comfortable and the baby can latch on and nurse successfully. Here are some of the breastfeeding positions that mothers can choose from.
Relaxed Nursing Position
From the start of breastfeeding, this natural posture can be adopted. It’s a great option for everyone, but it’s especially beneficial if you’re breastfeeding a preemie, twins, or a child who has difficulty latching.
Cradle hold
The cradle position is one of the most common breastfeeding positions. Breastfeeding in this position can be difficult at first, but once your baby gets the hang of it, it’s an enjoyable and popular way to breastfeed. The cradle grip is carried out as follows:
- Hold the baby against your body, his stomach against yours.
- With the arm on the same side as the nipple where the infant is breastfeeding, hold the baby.
- To minimize strain on the child’s arm, keep their head in sync with the middle of their body.
- To make this position more comfortable, use a nursing pillow or armrest to support your elbow.
However, with a newborn, some women find this posture difficult to learn. Additionally, as newborns grow, they may become too heavy to hold in this position.
Cross cradle support
The cross cradle, also known as the cross wedge, is ideal for breastfeeding premature babies, newborns and babies who have difficulty latching. This position allows you to see your breast and your baby’s mouth more clearly. You also have better control over your baby’s latch because you are holding their head. To breastfeed in the cross-cradle position, follow these steps:
Hold the baby with his neck and back aligned toward his stomach.
Place your arm over the baby’s shoulders and hold their head, letting their bottom rest in the curve of your arm.
The football position, also known as the clutch hold, is ideal for breastfeeding twins. Since the baby is not lying on your stomach, this is also a great position for breastfeeding after a C-section. This technique may also be preferred by mothers with large breasts and flat or inverted nipples. This is another posture that allows you to see your baby’s mouth and nipples more clearly.
Side lying position
For women recovering from surgery or breastfeeding at night, lying on your side is an excellent breastfeeding posture. This is a common posture among women who sleep with their babies. At first, some women have a lot of trouble getting into the right position. Lying on their side can be difficult for very small newborns. To breastfeed in a side-lying position, follow these steps:
- Face the baby in a side-lying position.
- The baby’s nose should be close to your nipple.
- Hold the baby close to you and use your forearm or a wrapped blanket or towel to cushion their back.
Some babies prefer to nurse from the top of the breast, while others prefer to nurse from the breast closest to the bed.
Wrap it all up
These are the best breastfeeding positions a mother can try. As a woman and her baby develop a habit and relationship, the best position for breastfeeding may change. Allow yourself to try different postures. Although some postures may seem difficult at first, with practice they will become easier and more comfortable. This Health classes during pregnancy might as well help. Join the Birth preparation courses. They provide expert advice and safe classes to expectant mothers throughout their pregnancy and beyond. Visit them now!
