Feeding Positions

Feeding baby around the clock can leave you feeling sore and achy! Trying various positions can help relieve fatigued muscles and keep you both comfy. Pay attention to your posture and support yourself with pillows to avoid straining or hunching your back. Bring baby towards your body, as opposed to dropping your body down towards them. Remember to grab water and a snack, as well as take a bathroom break before you settle in, just in case you get trapped under a sweet sleeping little one!

Cradle: Support baby with the arm on the same side they are feeding from. Allow their head to rest on top of your arm, so they can tilt their head to control latching.
Cross-cradle: Support baby with the arm opposite the breast they are feeding from. This supports baby's head & shoulders, and lets them tilt their head to latch.
Laid Back: Lean back in a well-supported reclined position, with baby on your tummy and within view. This position can be helpful if you have a forceful letdown, or large breasts.
Side-lying: You and baby lay on your sides facing each other, belly-to-belly. Support your back with pillows so you can relax. Great when you are tired, after a c-section, or if you have stitches.
Football Hold: Support baby with your forearm, with their body resting along your side, on the same side they are feeding from.This can give a different angle for latching, as well as a more comfortable hold after surgery.

Download a one-page file of these positions here:

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