Before breastfeeding, it is important for the mother to have knowledge about the correct breastfeeding positions. In particular, the baby’s ability to hold the breast fully ensures that the baby gets enough milk and helps prevent nipple pain and cracks. No matter what position you are in while breastfeeding, you should feel comfortable. In the early days, breastfeeding positions where the feet are raised on the couch or the chest is flattened by sitting on a cushion may be preferred. Some mothers prefer to breastfeed lying down next to their baby, while others prefer to adopt the natural breastfeeding position of holding the baby crossed against the body. Now, let’s take a look at some breastfeeding styles ..
The most common breastfeeding positions
There is more than one type of breastfeeding, such as breastfeeding on the lap, cross-over breastfeeding, side-lying breastfeeding. The important thing to remember here is that both mother and baby should be comfortable while breastfeeding.
1.Breastfeeding on the lap with cradle hol
Among the breastfeeding positions, in the lap-over-cradle hold, the baby’s head rests on the inside of the elbow or forearm and the whole body is turned towards the mother. The back of the back is supported with the same arm and the buttocks and hips are supported with your hand.
2.Breastfeeding with the cross cradle hold
The baby is held at breast level, towards the breast to be breastfed and supported with the other arm. In this type of breastfeeding position, the elbow supports the baby’s bottom and the forearm supports the baby’s entire back. The palm of the hand is used to hold the upper back, while the thumb and other fingers are used to hold the neck on one side. With the index finger, the lower part of the baby’s head is supported under the ear.
3.Breastfeeding with the feet behind the back holding the bag
During breastfeeding, the arm is opened and the baby is held sideways between your side and your arm, with the feet coming out from behind. Support the baby’s shoulders, neck and lower part of the head with your hand and, if necessary, hold the breast with the other hand.
4.Side lying breastfeeding
Lie on the bed with the baby belly to belly. The baby’s back is supported with an arm. The baby starts sucking from the nearest breast.
Things to Consider While Breastfeeding
Regardless of the type of breastfeeding position, the following points should be considered:
- The baby’s head and body should always be facing the breast and the baby should be helped to approach the breast with the chin first.
- The nipple should be aligned with the upper palate when the baby’s mouth is fully open.
- The baby should be able to get most of the dark part of the breast by opening its mouth wide, and your nipple should be in a protected spot well inside the mouth.
As long as you are comfortable and your baby is awake and ready to take the breast, trying different breastfeeding positions will help you find the one that works best for both of you. Perhaps you and your baby will be adding a different breastfeeding position to the list of breastfeeding positions. Breastfeeding pillows can also help you and your baby get into a comfortable position while breastfeeding.
Until your breastfeeding pattern is established, we recommend that you feed your baby with both breasts during each feed. You can even start feeding with a different breast each time you breastfeed.
However, remember that breastfeeding and latching on is a skill that both you and your baby need to learn. If breastfeeding is becoming a difficult process for you due to nipple irritation, you can consult a lactation consultant or your doctor.