How to Breast-Feed in a Sling

If you want to nurse your baby on the go, a sling is an indispensable accessory. It allows you to nurse comfortably and discreetly, even while standing or walking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Baby Bibs
• Baby Slings
• Burp Cloths
• Nursing Bras
• Nursing Shirts
• Cloth Diapers

1. Place your baby in the sling using the cradle hold or reverse cradle hold.
2. Turn your baby's body slightly in the sling so that the two of you are tummy-to-tummy when your baby needs to nurse.
3. Pull down the sling rail closest to your body, and pull up your shirt or open your nursing shirt; this should give your baby instant access.
4. Tighten the sling so that your baby's head is level with your breast if he or she is in the reverse cradle hold (head away from the rings).
5. Rotate the sling around your body if your baby is in the cradle hold (head toward the rings), until the baby's head is at the level of your breast. This may mean that the shoulder pad slips in front of your shoulder, but you can readjust the sling after you nurse, or wear the pad slightly further back if you know you may have to nurse.
6. To be extra discreet, pull up the outer padded sling rail so that it covers your baby's head, making sure it is still open at the top.

Tips & Warnings

• You may have to tighten your sling more than usual to nurse comfortably, unless you are very large-breasted.
• It may be difficult at first to find a position that works for both you and your baby; keep trying different positions until you get it right.
• Nursing in a sling is a great way to get your baby to sleep, especially if he or she is fussy or colicky.
• If your baby tends to spit up or drool while nursing, you may want to keep a burp cloth or cloth diaper tucked into the sling when you nurse; otherwise, you will have to wash your sling frequently.
• When your baby has finished nursing, make sure you readjust both rails of the sling carefully so that he or she can't slip out.
• Never use the sling in a moving vehicle; a sling is not a substitute for a car seat.