Breastfeeding Positions & benefits – UpTodd

Breastfeeding or nursing has two approaches: first, it ensures the baby’s survival, and second, it is a spontaneous method of forming the first connection in the outside world with the primary caregiver, i.e., the mother. And there is a science behind it. 

Want to know? 

The mother’s breast releases a liquid similar to the amniotic fluid (in the womb). The identical texture & smell help the baby to latch the nipples, aiding in the mother-baby bond.  

Breastfeeding can be awkward for new mothers, and finding the perfect breastfeeding position for newborns is even more challenging. However, there is no such thing as right & wrong breastfeeding positions. Do what’s befitting to you & your baby. It’s always a trial method. 

Hence, below are the approachable breastfeeding positions for newborns. Please have a look. 

Breastfeeding positions for newborns

1. Cradle hold 

It is one of the most popular and accessible breastfeeding positions for newborns. 

How to do: 

• • Sit comfortably on a chair or sofa and use pillows to support the back. 

• • Hold the baby; the baby’s head will rest on the elbow’s crook (the side you want to breastfeed), and the baby’s chest & tummy are facing against yours. 

• • Support the baby’s neck & ensure the baby is in a straight line. 

• • Let the baby latch the nipple and ensure that the baby can breathe properly while nursing.

• • Nursing pillows/ regular pillows can be used for additional support to the arms to prevent arms tiring or souring. 

The cradle hold ensures a good latch for the baby and also provides eye interaction with the baby. 

2. Cross-Cradle Hold 

This breastfeeding position gives more support & control when helping the baby to achieve a good latch on nipples. 

How to do: 

• • Sit comfortably on a chair or sofa and use pillows to support the back. 

• • Hold the baby; the baby’s head will rest on the elbow’s crook (the side you want to breastfeed), and the baby’s chest & tummy are facing against yours. 

• • Ensure to hold the baby with the arm opposite the breast you want to feed the baby. 

• • Use your opposite hand to support the baby’s neck & head.

• • Help the baby in nipple latching & feed themselves.  

This position is helpful for babies facing difficulties in latching the nipples & also seek more head & neck support while breastfeeding. 

3. Side-lying 

This position comes in handy during nighttime while sleeping. 

How to do

• • Lay on one side of the body and make the position more comfortable with pillows. 

• • Position the baby next to you and make sure that his mouth is in alignment with the nipples. 

• • Gently pull the baby closer so the baby can latch onto the nipples. Also, use your hands to guide the baby. 

Make the position comfortable with pillows & little adjustments to avoid falling. 

Undoubtedly, all will agree that breastmilk is the first choice for infant nutrition, and why not? 

Mother’s milk will check all the boxes of a balanced diet – for instance, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals like zinc, iron & more. Hence, it must remain the primary source of nutrition for babies up to 2 years to monitor their healthy growth.  

Reference from Breastfeeding positions

Breastfeeding Benefits for Baby 

As said earlier, breastmilk remains the primary nutrition source for babies due to the following reasons: 

• • Nutritious: It is highly nutritious plus easily digestible, thus helping the baby to adjust to the changing environment. Plus, it ensures that the baby doesn’t have digestive issues. 

• • Newborns have a weak immune system, and that’s why breastmilk has antibodies that help the baby to develop their immune system and also protect them from bacterial & fungal infections.  

• • Skin-to-skin contact & eye interaction during breastfeeding provides comfort & security to the baby. Thus helping the mother & baby form a strong connection. 

• • Breastmilk is highly balanced, and this ensures the healthy brain & weight of the baby. 

Breastfeeding forwards the mother’s benefits, not only babies. 

Reference from Common breastfeeding positions

Breastfeeding Benefits for Mothers 

True but unknown fact breastfeeding consumes calories, thus helping the mother to lose pregnancy weight. 

It is an excellent opportunity for mother & baby to form bonds. 

Breastfeeding mothers can fight several health conditions like postpartum depression, type 2 diabetes, etc. 

While breastfeeding, mothers release oxytocin hormone, which in turn stimulates uterine contractions. These contractions help the uterus to achieve the pre-pregnancy size & reduce postpartum bleeding. Thus, aiding in recovery. 

Breastfeeding is not only an option for providing infants with much-needed nutrition & immune support but also an excellent routine for establishing a connection with the infant. However, breastfeeding is ultimately a personal choice, and mothers must function in what is enjoyable to themselves & the newborn. 

Reference from Common breastfeeding positions

You can explore UpTodd’s Parenting Program to give a solid boost to your baby’s development.

Don’t forget to check out why wooden toys are best suited for babies

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