Live Life Team
Proper positioning and holding of a baby while breastfeeding is one of the most basic things that mothers should know. Although there are positions that are commonly used by mothers, correct positioning should be learned to provide more comfort for both the baby and the mother (most especially for a mother who has recently undergone a caesarean section).
One of the classic breastfeeding positions is the cradle hold, which is done by cradling the baby’s head in the crook of the mother’s arm. The cradle hold is usually performed while the mother sits on a bed with a lot of pillows under her arm or on a chair with supportive armrests. Some moms also use positions like the cross-over hold, the clutch or rugby ball hold or a reclining position (these are specific names for breastfeeding positions).
Among others, the side-lying lactating position is most comfortable. For this position, the mother lies on her side with a pillow under her head (she can also put a pillow behind her knees), while her baby lies on its side. Preferably, she should give the side of her breast (left/right) that is nearer to her baby’s face; however, she has an option to offer whichever side is more relaxing for her. When the baby starts to feed, she must support her baby’s back using her upper arm. A rolled up towel or blanket can also be used to give greater support to the baby’s back. The mother can insert her lower arm underneath her pillow to give her more leverage.
