Common positions for breastfeeding

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that the best and healthiest option for babies is to be exclusively breastfed for the first six months and to be breastfed with complementary solid foods for up to two years and beyond. Unicef ​​also made it clear that mixed feeding or the introduction of other foods or liquids before six months can cause certain health problems such as respiratory infections, dehydration, diarrhea and allergies. Exclusive breastfeeding has many benefits for your baby. To make this possible, you must learn the different breastfeeding positions that are compatible with your comfort level and health. By having a step-by-step guide, you can be breastfeeding in no time.

How is the baby placed on the breast?

Cradle support

This is the most common position for breastfeeding moms. The crib positions your baby against your abdomen, while his face and body are facing you. Make sure your baby is in a straight position and wrap your forearm around your waist. In this position, the baby’s head is at the angle of your elbow and his mouth is toward your nipple.

Cross cradle support

This position is very similar to that of the cradle support. First, be sure to place your baby at breast level with his mouth toward your nipple. You should hold the baby on the arm opposite the breast from which you will suckle. This position is recommended for mothers if their baby is too small for his age or if he has trouble latching on.

Lying down

This position can be done by placing pillows behind your back for comfort and support. After that, position your baby’s stomach parallel to your body and adjust it to a position where the baby’s mouth is directly in front of your nipple. If you are afraid of your baby rolling backwards, put a small pillow or blanket behind your baby’s back.

Football grip

The football grip is recommended for women who have C-sections, babies who have difficulty latching on, and young babies. This position is very similar to the cross-cradle position, but it will hold your baby under your arm and lean on the side that you will be feeding. The baby is not lying on your abdomen. As in the lying position, you can use a pillow and place it next to you. In the palm of your hand, you will place the back of your baby’s head while your inner forearm carries her back. Place your baby on the pillow, supported by your arm.

How to remove the baby’s nipple

If you can get the baby to let go of your nipple, the nipples may become sore and painful. But if you are not comfortable with your baby latching on, don’t be afraid to gently pull it out and do it again. Do this by placing the tip of your little finger on the side of the baby’s mouth and he will immediately open his mouth. By doing this, you will interrupt the vacuum that the baby creates in your mouth for sucking.