An Illustrated Guide to Finding Your Perfect Nursing Position
Nursing is one of the great wonders of motherhood, but finding the right groove for you and your little one can be a bit challenging first. We're happy to share this set of sweet illustrations highlighting different ways to hold your baby while breastfeeding. Try them out and see which works best for you!
FOOTBALL HOLD
With the football hold, baby is tucked under your arm off to the side (like a football:). If you’re holding baby on the right side, baby will latch onto your right breast while you support it with your left hand. This position can be helpful for c-section moms because there’s less rubbing on the incision, and also for moms who are struggling with a deep latch.
KOALA HOLD
Snuggle your little bear upright, facing you and straddling your knee. You’ll support baby with the arm on the same side as baby is feeding. This position is great for older babies who can support their own heads and would like to take in their surroundings while feeding.
LYING DOWN
This is a great position to help you stay snuggled in bed for late night feedings. Lie down on your side with baby facing you. Baby nurses from the breast that’s resting on the bed. This is another good position for moms who had a c-section. Just remember mama, there's no right or wrong way to hold your baby when you feed. As long as you've got a good attachment, go forth and experiment.
TRADITIONAL CRADLE HOLD
This position is also very popular during the first few weeks of nursing when you’re getting comfortable with breastfeeding your baby. Support baby with the arm on the same side as the breast she’s feeding from. A breastfeeding pillow can help lift baby and support your elbows.