Breastfeeding is best for you baby, but it’s not always easy. Some problems, such as improper latch and sore nipples, can be corrected by trying different positions. Learning about the different ways you can hold the baby will really help. The best time to learn about breastfeeding is during pregnancy. You will be tired after the baby is born, so arm yourself with knowledge now.
Cradle Hold
The cradle hold is the position you probably imagine when you think of breastfeeding. This position is most often shown in pictures of nursing mothers. The baby is held at the bend of your elbow on the side where you are breastfeeding. Your forearm is used to support the baby’s head and back. Hold the baby tummy to tummy, facing you with her nose and mouth lined up to your nipple.
Hold your breast about two inches from the areola, with your thumb above your nipple and the other four fingers below. Compress the breast slightly as you bring your baby to the breast. You will use this technique with every hold. The cradle position is sometimes difficult with new babies, especially small ones. If you had a c section, this hold can be painful for your incision. The cradle hold often works best when baby has stronger neck muscles.
The Football Hold
This position resembles holding the baby like a football. Tuck the baby under your arm on the same side you will be breastfeeding. You will cradle his head in your hand and support his body with your forearm. Use a pillow under your baby and in your lap to support your arm and his body. The baby should be facing your breast as you guide him onto the nipple.
The lactation consultant showed me this hold after my first daughter was born. It really was easier for her to latch on and helped my sore nipples. This hold is very good for smaller babies. Also, if you had a c section, this position keeps the baby away from your incision.
The Cross Cradle Hold
This position is almost a cross between the cradle and football holds. Rather than holding the baby in the arm on the side you will breastfeed, the baby is supported with the opposite arm. Your hand supports her head and forearm supports her body as you guide him to the opposite breast. For example, if you will be nursing with the left breast, hold the baby with the right hand supporting her head.
Hold the baby tummy to tummy as you guide her onto the breast. This is good for smaller babies. It’s also a good position to try if the baby has trouble latching. Like the cradle hold, this position may aggravate your incision after a c section. If this is the case, wait until you heal before trying it.
Side Lying Position
With this position, you are lying on your side with the baby facing you. The baby should be facing you. Cradle his head in your arm for support. Use pillows under your head and behind your back for support. Use a pillow or blanket to support the baby and bring him up to the level of your nipple. You should be on the same level for this position to be comfortable.
This position is nice for resting in bed, either at home or in the hospital. If you’ve had a c section, you may find this position helps as the baby isn’t rubbing your incision. When you first use this position, you may need the lactation consultant, nurse or your husband help you get situated with pillows.
Try a variety of different positions to find the ones that are most comfortable and work best for your baby. Using a variety of positions will help avoid sore nipples. Switching positions periodically can also help boost your supply in the early weeks, since all areas of your nipples will be stimulated.