Different Breastfeeding Positions for You And Baby
When you think about breastfeeding you only really think about one position – the cradle hold. Little do people know that there are different positions that could be more comfortable and appropriate for you and for your baby?
Whatever breastfeeding position you use there is one thing that is certain, your baby will nurse better when she is calm. So here we will show a few different positions that you could try and see which ones are the best for you. The first is the most commonly known and used one.
The Cradle Hold
The position requires you to sit upright and comfortable either on a chair with armrests or on your bed supported by pillows. Your baby’s head goes in the crook of your arm while her body is either on your lap or she’s layi
ng on a pillow on your lap with her arm under yours.
This position is probably better if your baby was full term and delivered vaginally. If you wait until your baby is a little older she will be able to hold her neck up better which is less awkward for her and a bit easier on your arm. If you have had a C section if your newborn is resting on your stomach it may be uncomfortable.
Second Breastfeeding Position: The Cross-over Hold
Your baby is in the same position as in the cradle hold except this time rather than her head being supported by the crook of your arm it is supported by your hand. You want her to be on her side and her arms and legs to be facing you. You use your thumb and fingers to give her head to your breast. This works well for small babies.
Third Breastfeeding Position: The clutch or Football Hold
This is a good position if you have had a C section, as it means the baby is not resting on where the incision was. Here you support your baby’s head with your 
hand, her body, legs and arms are facing you but tucked under your arm you want the soles of her feet to be facing the ceiling but resting against the back of your chair/pillows.
Good if you have had a C section and if your baby is small or has trouble latching on. It also works well if you have large breasts, flat nipples or have twins.
Reclining Position
This is especially comfortable for both mother and baby, more so at night time. You both lie on your side facing each other and your hand cradles her head. A pillow behind your babie
s back would stop her from rolling away from you. It is best to make sure her body is in a straight line so she can get milk easily. She needs to be higher than your breast so it does not strain your nipple.
Best if you have had a C section, difficult delivery, or sitting up is uncomfortable.
It is important that both mother and baby are comfortable when breastfeeding as this is a moment you will both be sharing for a long time. It will also make your baby want to feed which makes your life as mummy easier as well.