Breastfeeding

The 5 positions of breastfeeding

What position do I go in to breastfeed the baby? Why is the breastfeeding position so important for mom too?

Like any new experience, breastfeeding takes  practice! Although it may seem a little complicated at first, over time you and your baby will get to know each other and it will all become very natural.

In this article, we’ll introduce you to the most common breastfeeding positions . They are all valid and  there is no position that is better than the others , but there is one that is best for you and your little one, in which both of you feel comfortable.

Before we begin, however, it is important to remember that:

it is the baby who goes towards the breast and not vice versa, and that breastfeeding must not cause pain.

In case of doubts or problems

If you are in any doubt or in pain, ask a midwife or lactation consultant for help to identify the problem and check that the baby is latching on to the breast correctly . Any position used to breastfeed, in fact, implies a good attachment of the newborn. This will reduce the risk of complications (fissures, breast engorgement, mastitis) and will promote serene breastfeeding.

The semi-recumbent position

This semi-recumbent position can be helpful after a cesarean . It is also recommended in case of strong ejection of milk .

The cradle position

This is the position that is used most often. The baby’s mouth should be level with the nipple .

To maintain this position, you can also help yourself with a sling or a breastfeeding pillow .

Lying down positions

Many mothers who have suffered a caesarean section or a major laceration during childbirth prefer to breastfeed the first few times lying on their side , in one of these two positions. Both allow the mother to rest and are therefore often taken during the night or when she wakes up.

An alternative to the lying position is this semi-sitting position with the baby held in the cradle position.

Seating alternatives

Two other positions that can be adopted while seated are that of the transversal embrace and the “rugby” position . These too may be more comfortable right after a C-section . They are also useful when the baby is a sleeper and in case of a strong milk ejection reflex .

A third position is with the baby sitting on the mother’s lap.

This is a favorable position in case of strong milk ejection reflex and in case of gastroesophageal reflux of the newborn.

Furthermore, it is also useful when the child has a cold.

If they are twins?

Breastfeeding twins is undoubtedly a little more complicated. If they are suckled alternately , then all previous positions can be used.

Dr Kathryn Barlow

Kathryn Barlow is an OB/GYN doctor, which is the medical specialty that deals with the care of women's reproductive health, including pregnancy and childbirth.

Obstetricians provide care to women during pregnancy, labor, and delivery, while gynecologists focus on the health of the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, uterus, vagina, and breasts. OB/GYN doctors are trained to provide medical and surgical care for a wide range of conditions related to women's reproductive health.

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