By Suzana Common Breastfeeding Positions
The World Health Organization (WHO) says that the best and healthiest choice for babies is for them to be exclusively breastfed for the first six months, and breastfeeding with complementary solid foods until the age of two and beyond. Unicef also made it clear that mixed feeding or the introduction of other foods or liquids before six months can cause certain health problems such as respiratory infections, dehydration, diarrhea, and allergies. Exclusive breastfeeding has many benefits for your baby. To make it possible, you should learn the different breastfeeding positions that is compatible to your comfort level and health condition. By having a step by step guide, you can be breastfeeding in no time.
How Is The Baby Placed At The Breast?
Cradle Hold
This is the most common position for breastfeeding mums. The cradle hold positions your baby against your abdomen, while his face and body facing you. Make sure that your baby is in a straight position and tuck his lower arm around your waist. In this position, the baby’s head is in the angle of your elbow, and his mouth facing towards your nipple.
Cross Cradle Hold
This position is closely the same with the cradle hold. First, make sure that your baby is placed at the level of your breast with his mouth directed to your nipple. You should hold the infant in the arm opposite the breast from which your baby will suckle. This position is recommended to mothers if your baby is too small for his age or you are encountering problems latching on.
Lying Down
This position can be done by placing pillows behind your back for comfort and support. After that, place your baby’s stomach parallel with your body and adjust to a position where the baby’s mouth is directly facing your nipple. If you are afraid that your baby may roll backwards, place a small pillow or blanket behind your baby’s back.
Football Grip
Football grip is recommended to women who have c-sections, infants who are having difficulty latching on, and small sized babies. This position is closely similar to cross cradle hold but your will be holding your baby under your arm and resting on the side you will be feeding him. The baby is not lying on your abdomen. Just like the lying down position, you can use a pillow and place it beside you. In the palm of your hand, you will position the posterior part of your baby’s head while his back is carried by your inner forearm. Position your baby above the pillow, with the support of your arm.
How To Take The Baby Off Your Nipple
If you get the baby to let go of your nipple, the nipples may become sore and painful. But if you are not comfortable with your baby latching on, don’t be afraid to gently take the baby off and do it again. Do it by placing the tip of your little finger in the side of the baby’s mouth and he will immediately open his mouth. By doing this, it will interrupt the vacuum that the baby creates in his mouth to suckle.