Just like any other skill, proper technique is important to successful breastfeeding. Getting it right makes all the difference in your comfort level and your baby's being adequately nourished. Here are the basics for beginners -- they may seem challenging at first, but a month into the process, you probably won't even have to think about them.
- Cradle Hold - While sitting upright, cradle the baby's head in the crook of your arm on the side you want to nurse from. Her/his body should be lying across your lap and facing toward your chest. Cup your breast outside the areola (the darker area around the nipple) with your other hand, and use your arm to pull your baby toward you.
- Cross-Cradle Hold - The arms are switched in this variation on the previous position. The baby is supported by the arm and hand of the side opposite from the breast being used, so that you can put your hand behind her/his head for extra control. This position is ideal for small babies, or those who have trouble latching on.
- Football Hold - Tuck Baby's legs underneath your arm so that they're behind you with him/her looking up at your nipple. Hold your breast with the hand opposite the side you're nursing on. Position the nursing-side hand behind Baby's head, and pull him onto the breast. This position is especially good if you've had a c-section, because it avoids putting pressure on your abdomen. It also gives you good control over your baby's head during latch on.
- Lying Down - Many seasoned breastfeeders love this position because they barely have to wake up for night nursings. Lying on your side with your head in the crook of your arm, tummy to tummy, and her/his mouth pointed toward your nipple. It's essentially a lying-down version of the cradle hold.
