Breastfeeding Positions That Make Feeding Easier and More Comfortable

As a mom, when you imagine breastfeeding, you may picture a happy baby quietly nursing in the crook of your arm. Moments like this can make you think that feeding babies is simple, but to be honest, it’s not. Positioning and latching, in particular, pose some challenges. Mastering the right way to hold a baby to get them to latch on well and then maintaining that latch and position during nursing is not that easy. It calls for the practice to find a position that’s effective. In this article, we will share the 4 best breastfeeding positions for you.

1. Cradle Hold

This is definitely the most common breastfeeding position. However, if you recently had a C-section, it may be painful because your little one lies on your stomach near the fresh scar. In that case, try it by lying on your side. For a good cradle hold, sit on a chair that has armrests or lie on a bed with fluffy pillows or cushions around you. The steps for the cradle hold are:

• Lay your baby facing you on your lap.
• Position your baby’s head and nose towards your nipple. Their entire body should be supported by your hands.
• After that, keep your baby’s lower arm under yours.
• At last, always check that your infant’s ear, hip and shoulder are aligned during the feed.

Tip: If you're using cradle hold positions while sitting on a chair, keep your legs on a stool or small table. This will prevent you from bending forward, which can cause back pain. Also, try wearing a nursing bra. The level of comfort will be double.

2. Lying on Your Side

This is the best position if you are recovering from a cesarean or difficult labor or if you ever had to breastfeed in the wee small hours. The steps are:

• First, lay your baby on your side. Place your baby in such a way that face lies to face and tummy to tummy.
• Make sure your infant's hip, shoulder, and ear are all in a straight line and not twisted.
• Add some soft pillows or cushions behind your back for support. To support your bundle of joy, use a rolled-up baby blanket behind them; do not forget to take it off once the session is finished. If you decide to keep a pillow under your head, keep it in a way that does not bother the baby.
• Use your free arm to support and guide your baby's head to your breast while tucking the arm you are lying on under your head or pillow. Be careful that the pillow does not change your baby's position.

3. Laid-Back Nursing

It is also known as biological nursing. It happens when you lie down in a relaxed, semi-reclined position on a cushy bed or couch. The steps are:

• Recline on a bed or sofa, but do not lie flat.
• Use pillows or cushions to support your neck, shoulders, and back.
• When you are ready, position your baby facing you. Ideally, their stomach should rest on yours; however, if this is uncomfortable, place them on one side.
• Make sure your posture lets you look into your infant's eyes.
• Slowly guide your infant to your nipple while providing support.

4. Rugby Hold

The rugby hold, or you can call it a clutch, is perfect for cesarean babies, as there will be no pressure on the stomach and scar area. It is also suitable for twins, as you can nurse them simultaneously. The steps are:

• Grab a chair and sit on it with a cushion or pillow on your side.
• Place your infant beneath your arm, hips close to your hips, at your side (the side you wish to feed from). Your nipple and your baby's nose should be level.
• Use the palm of your hand to support your infant's neck.
• Lead them gently to your nipple.

The Takeaway

Breastfeeding is a process full of learning, love, and little wins. It doesn’t matter what position you try for your baby; comfort is the only thing that matters. The more comfortable and supported you feel, the more empowered and connected you’ll become. Therefore, always visit Lovemere to buy any maternity and nursing essentials. It is a trustworthy brand in Singapore that caters products to thousands of mothers. Trust your instincts, practice the correct position, and let Lovemere grow with you.