How to Position a Baby While Breastfeeding

Nothing helps newborn babies grow and stay healthy like breastfeeding, but it can feel quite awkward until you have a routine down. One of the things that will help you and baby most is finding a position that works for you both. Experiment with the different positions to find what works best.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a comfortable position that allows you to put your feet up. Place a pillow on your lap to raise the baby to the level of your breasts.

2. Place the baby on the pillow in your lap for the most common breastfeeding position, the cradle hold. Turn her so that her body faces you.

3. Support her head in the crook of the arm of the breast she will be nursing from and make certain she is at the correct level so that neither of you has to strain. Use your free hand to support a heavy breast between fingers for nursing ease.

4. Try the football hold if your baby has trouble latching on with the cradle hold, which is sometimes a problem with newborns. Another advantage of the football hold is that it relieves pressure on your stomach. Tuck your baby under arm with his body extended next to your side. Placing a pillow underneath him raises him so that you don't have to strain your neck or back muscles.

5. Lie down for nursing at night or anytime you want to rest after breastfeeding. Just make certain that both of you are well supported.

6. Alternate positions once breastfeeding becomes easier. The different holds put pressure on varied parts of the nipple, which may help you avoid clogged milk ducts and sore nipples.

Tips & Warnings

• Alternate the breast you start with at each feeding.