There are several positions you can use to breastfeed your child. We often think about baby’s comfort, but while breastfeeding, I learned that it was super important for me to be at ease and comfortable while breastfeeding my child. 

N’t forget that breastfeeding shouldn’t be painful. If it is, there may be several reasons (baby is poorly positioned, a poor latch…).

If baby doesn’t open their mouth wide enough, you can help by placing your nipple under their nose. That way, they’ll want to open their mouth wide to take in the areola, not just the nipple. 

Whichever position you choose, it’s important that:

• L’s ear, shoulder, and hip should be aligned.
• Make sure you have everything you need within reach (water, cookies, almonds, phone…)
• N’t forget to use the bathroom before breastfeeding baby; you never know how long it might take.

N’t hesitate to consult a lactation consultant; they can be a lifesaver! 

The cradle hold

I’d say this is the most common breastfeeding position. Baby’s head rests on your forearm, on the same side as the breast they’re feeding from. Right breast = right arm.

The cross-cradle hold

It’s the opposite of the classic cradle hold. If you breastfeed baby with your right breast, baby is supported by your left arm. Right breast = left arm.

The side-lying position

Personally, this is my favorite position! You lie on your side, with your stomach against baby. Place baby’s head slightly below your breast so they open their mouth wide, latch onto the breast, and get a good latch. 

The “football hold”

 No, no, no, no, we’re not going to play rugby with baby; it’s just a funny name to help you picture this breastfeeding position. 

If you’re breastfeeding baby with your right breast, you place baby on your right arm. Support their neck with your right hand.

You need to be sitting to use this position, and your baby’s legs extend behind you. 

The laid-back or semi-reclined position

This is often the first position offered when baby is born. If baby is healthy, they’re placed on your stomach or chest. Instinctively, they’ll move toward the nipple to try to nurse. 

This is a good position if you have a large chest or a forceful letdown. 

The koala position

More practical when baby is older. They sit astride your thigh, facing you. This position is especially popular for babies who often get ear infections or have reflux.

The wolf position

Baby is lying on their back, and you’re on all fours above them. This position is often used when you have engorgement or if baby is having trouble latching.

There are other breastfeeding positions, but today I’m sharing the most common ones.

By the way, tell me in the comments which position or positions you’ve practiced the most or disliked the most?