Lying Down Breastfeeding Positions
There are many different positions you can try when feeding your baby. It is important to find a position that allows both you and baby to be comfortable and for breastfeeding to be effective. There are many reasons why you may want to try breastfeeding while lying down.1,2
Here are a few:
- Comfort: This position may be more restful and comfortable
- Recovery: This position can be helpful when healing from your birthing experience (e.g., cesarean birth, vaginal birth, episiotomy)
- Deeper Latch: This means less chance of nipple pain and damage
- Other Reasons: This position may help with other conditions such as tongue-tie (helps to move the baby’s tongue forward) or baby feeling more supported
Laid-Back (sometimes called “Natural Breastfeeding Position”):1
- Lean back on a bed, chair or couch (around a 45 degree angle).
- Prop yourself up with pillows, you should be well supported and comfortable.
- Support your head and back so you can relax.
- Lay your baby across your chest or lengthwise. Try to place your baby’s cheek near your breast. Your baby will naturally find your nipple and latch deeply without needing to be held in place. Your baby’s feet should have contact with you, a pillow, or another surface. Helping them bend their knees into a froggy pose can be helpful.
- Adjust your breast as needed. Some mothers with large breasts may find it helpful to adjust the position of their breast and even support their breast in order to help the baby have better access for latching.
Side-Lying:2
- Lie on your side next to your baby on a firm, flat mattress and no pillows or blankets near the baby. Your baby should not be swaddled.
- Keep your head and back in a straight line; bending your knees and placing a pillow between them will add comfort.
- Your baby’s hips, stomach and chest should face your chest, and your baby’s mouth should be just below the nipple. Pull your baby in close and guide them over your nipple. You will cradle your baby’s back with your forearm.
- You may need to lift your breast to your baby’s mouth to support a deep latch.
- Place your head on a pillow or your arm.
- Avoid any loose blankets, heavy comforters or pillows near your baby.
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
- Sleep for the Breastfed Baby
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
References