Top Three Breastfeeding Position Mommies Prefer

All babies are different and their feeding habits differ vastly too. That’s characters, I believe. However the baby’s character is, what you need to be mindful of is to be comfortable for you and the baby and here are my top three positions when I breastfeed my babies.
As with any positions, it helps to massage your breasts to stimulate letdown reflex and to help milk flow before you pick up your baby.

The Cradle Hold

A pillow would help, but not a must. I’ve never used a pillow before and have faired considerably well.

First, the baby’s head is held in the crook/elbow area of the arm on same side as breast to be used for feeding. The baby’s body will lie alongside mom’s upper waist. The mom supports the breast with the opposite hand and roll baby’s body is in toward mother’s body so they are belly-to-belly.

Using your free left hand, squirt a few drops of breast milk to entice the baby. Plus, a wet nipple can prevent sores on the nipple.

Now, place your thumb at the top of the areola (12 o’clock) and the index finger underneath (6 o’clock). This is like cupping and this helps your baby to get a better grip or mouthful of your breast. When baby opens his mouth wide enough, quickly and always gently move the baby’s head towards the nipple. Try not to force the baby, just nudge him. Forcing will only gag him and put him off.

The Football Hold.

This position frees your hand a little and is great if baby tends to nurse from one side only. For a Football hold on the left side. First, arrange some pillows on your left side under your arm. Make sure that baby’s mouth and your nipple are at the same level.

Place baby on the pillows, lying him on his side. If you find yourself twisting your breast, then chances are you will struggle to stay comfortable. Sometimes, a specially designed breastfeeding pillow can help tremendously. Use your left am to support baby’s head and body.

The Lying Down Hold

This is by far my favourite. It is easy to manoeuvre from both left or right. Let’s try right this time. Arrange a set of pillows along the left side of your body. While you lie down, make sure that the pillows provide some support for you. Place the baby at the opposite side and make sure his head and mouth are at the same level as your breast. Support you baby’s body and head with your right arm. To start, use your free left hand to form your right breast. Like the other 2 holds, wait till the baby opens up wide before you offer him the breast.

Although these may sound a little technical, don’t fret. Before long you’ll be an old hand at this. I’ve perfected the art of breastfeeding while lying down and some nights I could not remember if I were at the left or right side of the bed. It does come very naturally. Trust me.