A new mom faces several challenges after childbirth. Breastfeeding may be tricky as you experience supply issues, latching problems, etc. Breastfeeding positions play a significant role in feeding your baby without any struggle. There is no one proper breastfeeding position that works for all moms. It is all about finding the most comfortable position for your baby and you. If you need help with the best breastfeeding positions for newborns, the following article is a complete guide for breastfeeding moms.
New moms usually find it challenging to breastfeed their babies with comfort. Some suffer from back pain and other discomfort due to the inappropriate feeding positions. Your baby might also find it difficult to latch or suck due to wrong breastfeeding positions. To ensure a hassle-free breastfeeding journey, you must know the perfect breastfeeding position that suits you and your baby. So here is a quick outlook on breastfeeding positions with step-by-step instructions.
Cradle hold breastfeeding position is ideal for babies. If you prefer feeding your baby in an armchair, go for the cradle hold position. Hold your baby on the side of the arm, the same as the side of the breast you wish to feed. Rest your baby’s head in your elbow to face your breast. You can also have a pillow in your lap so your baby does not need to move forward to reach the breast. Now, you can support your breast with the other hand. Now, help your baby to reach out to your breast.
This is a perfect feeding position for newborns as it helps to control your baby’s head. To feed in this position, sit in a comfortable armchair and hold your baby in an arm opposite the side of the breast you wish to feed. Hold your baby’s head and support your breast with the other hand. Now, help your baby to reach your breast.
Moms with small breasts can try feeding their babies in this position. You must sit reclined to feed in this position, holding your baby on your tummy. Make sure you support your baby’s body and head. Your baby will wiggle and move around to find the nipple. Never force your baby to latch. Gravity can help your baby to latch without your help. It is one of the best breastfeeding positions for latch. New moms with too much milk supply can try feeding their babies in this position for proper milk flow.
To feed your baby while resting, try feeding in a side-lying position. You lie on your side, supporting your head and back. Make your baby face your breast and hold it in one hand. Now, with the other hand, hold your breast and direct it towards your baby’s lips. Your baby will latch your nipple. Now, bring your baby close to you.
New moms after C-section can opt to feed their babies in this position. It is also a great choice when you’re breastfeeding twin babies. Moms with large breasts and more milk supply can try this position. Bend your elbow and hold your baby beside you. Hold your baby’s neck, resting the back on your forearm. Place a pillow under your baby so your baby reaches your nipple. Now, with the other hand, hold your breast and guide your baby to get your breast.
This position is ideal if your baby suffers from an ear infection, reflux, tongue tie, or overmilk supply. If your baby can sit without support, it is easy to feed in this position. Place your baby on your thigh, keeping your baby upright while breastfeeding.
● Your baby should latch onto the entire areola of your breast.
● Your baby’s chin must touch your breast.
● The top and bottom lips are curled out
● The cheeks should be rounded
● The jaws must be moving
● You must hear your baby swallowing
● You must feel comfortable when your baby is sucking.
The following signs help you know that your baby is drinking enough milk.
● Your baby is calm during feeds and looks satisfied after feeds.
● Your baby starts to suck quickly. You can hear your baby sucking and swallowing.
● You may notice weight gain after two weeks
● Your baby has six wet nappies and two poos.
● Clean your breast before every feed
● Make sure you place your nipple along with the areola to avoid pain.
● Keep yourself hydrated in between feeds
● Never give up breastfeeding your baby.
● Consult your doctor when you experience sore nipples.
Breastfeeding your baby is more challenging than you think. Newborns must figure out the proper breastfeeding position which is comfortable for both the baby and the newborn. It is up to the mother to decide the feeding position based on comfort and the latch. Look for signs to ensure your baby latches right and gets enough milk. If your baby doesn't latch right or struggles to suck, then consult your pediatrician. A lactation consultant may help you if you face issues with your milk supply.
Yes, a laid-back position helps newborns with breastfeeding. It is also great for new moms with a larger milk supply and provides better skin-to-skin contact with the baby.
The best breastfeeding positions after a C-section are side-lying, football hold, and laid-back. These positions help you hold your baby easily with less strain without touching your wound.
This is the correct breastfeeding position when you wish to feed your baby while sitting in a chair. For a cradle hold, bring your baby tummy to tummy. Hold your baby in the right arm if your baby breastfeeds on the left breast. Use your open hand to support your baby’s head. Now, move your baby’s mouth towards your breast.
If your baby has latched right, it is comfortable while breastfeeding. Other signs are your baby’s chin touching the breast, your baby swallowing regularly, and your baby looking relaxed after feeding.
