08/17/2020
There is no right or wrong way to hold and feed your baby. You will find what position works best for you and what is most comfortable, and don’t forget to grab your water and a snack before you begin feeding! 🍎
Did you know there are 11 commonly used ways to breastfeed? 🤱🏻
🌿 Laid-back Breastfeeding, or reclined position- People call this position the "biological nurturing position," and it's typically one of the first ones Mamas try. The baby is placed on your chest or tummy as soon as the baby is born, and you allow the baby to instinctively work their way toward your breast to attempt to latch on, also known as the "breast crawl" Isn't life super amazing? I just love how our instincts are always so spot on, even from birth!
🌿 Dangle Feeding- This position has your baby lying on their back on a flat surface, while you lean and crouch over them on all fours and 'dangle' your ni**le into their mouth. Some Moms say that it helps if they have conditions like mastitis and they don't want their baby squashed up against their breast.
🌿 Nursing in a sling- This is something you definitely would need to practice, but breastfeeding on the go is extremely convenient when you are out and about and trying to get things done.
🌿 Upright breastfeeding or Koala Hold- This is a hold that I have noticed that slightly older babies prefer since they sit straddling your thigh and have their head upright as they feed.
🌿 Rugby Ball Hold, You will sit with your baby laying along your forearm. Their body tucks alongside your side with their feet toward the back of whatever you are sitting on.
🌿 Cross Cradle Hold, Looks similar to the Cradle hold, but your arms would switch roles so your baby's body is lying along your opposite forearm. This works best with smaller babies, or newborns so you can fully support their head/neck/shoulders to allow them to tilt their heads prior to latching.
🌿 Dancer Hand Nursing Position- If you are struggling or having a hard time with your baby staying latched, or have a baby with premature conditions, this could be for you! You cup your breast with your hand underneath, fingers on one side and thumb on the other. Then you edge your hand forwards so your thumb and index finger form a "U-shape" just in front of the breast. Rest your baby's jaw on your thumb and index finger while they feed.
🌿 Cradle Hold, The most commonly used position! You are sitting upright with your baby on their side, and their neck and head are laying along your forearm and their body is against your stomach.
🌿 Double Rugby Ball Hold (which is for twin tandem feeding)
🌿 Laid back breastfeeding after a C-Section, If you are struggling with comfort after your cesarean this may help. Laying your baby's body across your shoulder will help keep the baby's weight or pressure off your wound while you heal.
🌿 Side-Lying Position, Ideal for relaxed feeding and breastfeeding in bed or laying down on the couch.
Being comfortable and relaxed during your breastfeeding sessions is the most important thing for you and your baby. Our bodies have natural instincts and can provide amazing things for our children. If you need any additional help or support I encourage you to contact your Lactation Consultant during those times to continue your journey and help you better feed your baby.
Also, feeding your baby whatever means is the way to go! If breastfeeding isn't your plan in action that's great too! Just remember that feeding is best, regardless if you breastfeed, chestfeed, pump, bottle feed, or formula feed. ❤️
