The Best Breastfeeding Positions For Mom And Baby
No sooner does a mom give birth that she dives straight into her new mommy duties. The initial excitement gives way to disappointment when a new mom finds it hard to get accustomed to some of them. Breastfeeding is one such thing that doesn’t come easily to a new mother and her baby. There are several things like the perfect latch and position that come into play when you start breastfeeding. And if you miss any one of them, the whole experience of breastfeeding can go awry. If you too are a new mommy who is still figuring out the right breastfeeding position, we bring here a list of the best ones for you and your baby. Read through and enlighten yourself:
The Cradle Position
To get this simple breastfeeding position right, lay your baby in your arms with the head resting on the curve of your elbow. Support your baby’s butt with the palms of the same arm. Use a pillow to support your arm and bring your baby to the breast’s height. Use the other free arm to hold the nipple in position when your baby feeds on your breasts.
However, some mothers prefer this position only after their baby becomes a bit older. This position does not give most new moms enough control over their newborn’s head movements.
Cross-Cradle Breastfeeding Position
In this breastfeeding position, you will need to rest your baby’s head in your palms and support the rest of the body within your arms. It is the opposite of the cradle position. Here the head will be toward the palm and the baby’s feet will touch your elbows. If you are feeding the baby on the right breast, then use the left arm and vice-versa. You’ll need to use your fingers to hold the nipple in place while the baby suckles.
This is the most preferred breastfeeding position for newborns as a new mommy can support the baby’s head movements effectively.
Side-Lying Position
For this position, lie down on the side you wish to feed first. If you want to start with the right side, lie on the right with your back well supported. Lay your baby on your side and bring the baby close to the breast using your left hand. Your right arm should support the baby’s body while the left palm will support the head. Use your palm to get your baby close to your breast to start feeding. To feed on the other breast, bend over a little more so your baby can latch on. Or, you can also switch sides. Keep a pillow behind your baby’s back to prevent the baby from rolling over.
You’ll find this position quite helpful during those initial days of sleepless nights. This will allow you to rest your body while feeding your baby.
The Football Position
Lie your baby lengthwise and face up with support from pillows. Use your palm to support your baby’s head and bring the baby close to the breast you wish to feed first. For instance, if it is the right breast, use your right arm to support the baby’s head and guide it toward your breast. Rest your right elbow on the pillow. Vice-versa for the left breast.
This position is especially ideal for those mommies who’ve had a C-section. It’ll help to prevent the baby from kicking at the stitches.
Handling a newborn is definitely not an easy journey for a new mommy who has just given birth. And breastfeeding is a natural process that you’ll take time to get a hang of. So, don’t worry much. Remember that all new mommies are in the same place as you. Give yourself and your baby some time and things will get better soon. Until then, try not to be too hard on yourself by setting unrealistic goals.
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