As a new nursing mother, it can be daunting to try and figure out how to hold your newborn to breastfeed. There is no one correct way to breastfeed, but there are some popular solutions that work better than others if you have some trouble. These breastfeeding positions are the top methods for nursing newborn babies.
The Best Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns
Laid Back
Some call this the biological nursing position because the reclined position allows for a more natural nursing experience. With laid back or reclined nursing, the baby rests on your stomach and nurses as you recline. The baby should have an easier time getting a proper latch in this position. If you give birth by c-section, this position is attainable but may require some adjustment of the baby. Premature babies may require more assistance than laid back nursing provides. However, if this position is possible, it tends to be the most natural and certainly most convenient in a hospital bed.
Side-Lying
The side-lying nursing position is a variation on the laid back position, but it is less optimal. Some babies do nurse better on their sides than on their backs. When you are doing the side-lying position you remain tummy to tummy, but you are both on your sides. You cradle the baby under your bottom arm and hold her close to aid in her latching. You can use your other hand to help position your nipple for the best latch. For moms who traditionally sleep on their sides, this can be the most comfortable position.
Cradle
The cradle position is the most common breastfeeding position. With the cradle hold, you cradle your baby on his side while sitting upright. It isn’t the best support for a newborn baby, so if possible you should try either laid back or side-lying options before attempting this position. With the cradle hold, the baby’s head rests at the bend in your arm. with your free hand, cup your breast and mack a C shape with your index finger and thumb. place your thumb over your areola, touching it to your newborn’s nose. Your index finger should be at the baby’s chin and you should achieve a good latch. There is also a cross-cradle position, which is similar except you hold the baby with the other arm, supporting his head with your hand. Your wrist should rest between the shoulder blades of your baby.
Football Hold
The football hold is a nursing position that can be ideal under certain circumstances such as a c-section. If you had twins or premature birth, the football hold proves useful. It’s also a helpful nursing position for moms who have large breasts. To do this just imagine holding a football. Hold the baby at your side with the legs tucked under your arm.
Dangle Feeding
This one can be cumbersome, but if all else fails, it might prove to be just the nursing position you need. For the dangle method, the baby lies on her back. You must lean over the baby dangling your nipple over the mouth. Moms who do this say the gravity seems to help unclog blocked ducts.