Your best breastfeeding positions: All the ways to feed your little one
Most importantly, enjoy it.

When your sweet little slimy baby is placed on your skin for the very first time, if you give them time, they will crawl up your body and make their way to your breast to start suckling (amazing, right?!).
Or, if you want to get right to it, you can place them into positions that help them get onto your breast effectively right from that very first feeding. Throughout your days, months, or years of nursing, you will most likely switch up positions that work best for you and your babe as they grow. Simply because of their size, their strength, where you are located, and your size of breasts, you will end up having your go-to's.
To start, get in a comfy spot that has great back support. Next, get yourself a breastfeeding pillow! My favorite is the Brest Friend because it clips around your body so you can make a shelf for your baby so they are in the perfect height at your breasts. The breastfeeding pillow gives you some freedom with your hands too (especially necessary in those early days, when you'll need to control your DVR and your phone to text your new mama friends).
Or, if you want to get right to it, you can place them into positions that help them get onto your breast effectively right from that very first feeding. Throughout your days, months, or years of nursing, you will most likely switch up positions that work best for you and your babe as they grow. Simply because of their size, their strength, where you are located, and your size of breasts, you will end up having your go-to's.
Getting into an optimal position will help your baby feed more efficiently and your nipples to stay healthy. I hope you try all the different positions and pick the one that makes you and your baby feel comfortable and supported.
1. Cross cradle
The cross cradle position is my go-to when helping new mothers nurse. It allows you to have the most control over your baby's body and head. It's helpful for small babie, new babies, and babies who have trouble latching. It can also assist with mothers with flatter nipples. In this position, lay your baby totally on his/her side across your body. If you are starting with your right breast, your left hand will be at the base of the baby's shoulders and neck, supporting the head, while their tushy will be tight in your left elbow crease. Your right hand will be supporting the underside of your breast making a U shape, which will mimic the direction of your baby's lips. Have their left hand/arm under your breast and the other on top to hug the breast2. Cradle
3. Football or clutch
In this position, you will tuck your baby underneath your arm beside your body, on the side you are nursing them from. This position is definitely recommended for women with very large breasts, for women who have soreness on their belly's from a cesarean section, and it's the BEST for feeding your twins at the same time. When you place your baby in this position make sure you have enough pillows underneath their body so their nose is high enough to be in line with your nipple. Their feet should not be pressed up against the couch behind you. Instead, have their butt resting against the back couch cushion and feet up to the ceiling. If we are nursing on the right side, your right hand will be holding the back of their shoulders and neck to support the head. Your left hand will be supporting your right breast mimicking the direction of your baby's lips, in a C shape.4. Side lying
5. Laid Back (biological nursing)
6. In a carrier
For moms who lead a busy life-style with their kiddo in tow, baby wearing is so yummy for both you and the baby, and its super easy access to your breasts for nursing. All you need to do is line your baby up so they can reach your breasts. For example, if you use the ErgoBaby 360, wear your baby facing in toward you, lower one of the shoulder straps enough so that your little one will be right in line with your breast. Take your breast out and voila! You can be subtle, concealed, and can carry on about your day while nursing. Every time you get setup to nurse your baby, have a big glass of water next to you. Get comfy. Grab your pillows. Remember the baby should always come to your breast, not your breast to the baby. When you make a C or a U shape with your hand to hold your breast, make sure your hand is far enough away from the areola so the baby does not hit your fingers when trying to latch. If its painful, try adjusting the baby's position, and if its still painful, gently break the suction and re-latch. Switch up your routine or settle on a position that you and your baby both love. And most importantly, enjoy it.