Here are the 4 most appropriate positions for breastfeeding
Breastfeeding, one of the most natural acts in the world, may require practice. Adopting an appropriate breastfeeding position can prevent cracks and engorgement. It is also the best way to allow the baby to have an effective sucking and promote the production of your breast milk. Here are some good positions to try, plus tips for effective breastfeeding.
1) The Madonna or Lullaby position
This classic breastfeeding position requires you to rock your baby’s head resting on the curve of your elbow. Sit in a chair that has support braces or on a bed with lots of pillows.
Rest your feet on a stool or other raised surface to avoid leaning towards your baby.
Hold him on your lap (or on a cushion on your lap) so that he is lying on his side with his face, belly and knees directly in front of you. Pull his lower arm and position him under your arm.
2) The inverted madonna position
This position differs from maintaining the cradle position in the sense that you do not support your baby’s head with your elbow. Instead, your arms change roles.
If you are breastfeeding with your right breast, use your left hand and arm to hold your baby. Rotate his body so that his chest and belly are directly in front of you. With your thumb and fingers behind his head and under his ears, guide his mouth to your breast.
3) The position “rugby ball”
As the name suggests, in this position, you hold your baby under your arm (on the same side as you are breastfeeding) such as a rugby ball or purse.
First, position your baby at your hips under your arm. He should be facing you with his nose at the same level with your nipple and his feet pointing to your back.
Rest your arm on a pillow on your lap or right next to you, and support your baby’s shoulders, neck and head with your hand. Using your fingers in “C” position, guide it towards your nipple, chin first.
But be careful: do not push him too much towards your chest as he can resist and head against your hand. Use your forearm to support the upper back.
You may want to try this if you have had a caesarean (to prevent the baby from sitting on your stomach).
4) The lying position
To breastfeed while lying in bed, ask your partner to place several pillows behind your back for support. You can put a pillow under your head and shoulders, and one between your bent knees too. The goal is to keep your back and your hips in a straight line.
With your baby facing you, bring him closer and lower his head with your free hand. Or put your head on your arm, push your lower arm under your head, out of the way.
If your baby needs to be higher and closer to your breast, place a small pillow under his head. He should not get tired to reach your breast, and you should not lean toward him. You may need to lift your breast, with your fingers under it, so that it can reach it comfortably.
