Comfortable Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns: A Guide for Expectant Mothers

Did you know that only 25.8% of parents successfully breastfeed for 6 months?

The percentage does not seem shocking as the barriers to a smooth breastfeeding journey are pretty prevalent, and many parents do not have the education and resources to help them continue with the process.

In this blog, we have suggested some common breastfeeding positions you can try with your newborn to make your breastfeeding journey as easy as possible.

Why do Breastfeeding Positions Matter?

Finding the right breastfeeding position can be challenging for new mothers. Although we make suggestions in this article, it’s important to understand that there is no one position that will work for every mother and baby.

Experimentation with different positions and techniques may help find the perfect position for both you and your baby. Breastfeeding positions for newborns are crucial for the comfort and effectiveness of the breastfeeding process for both the mother and the newborn.

Reducing the risk of painful nipple trauma

According to Dr Robyn Thompson’s PhD research in breastfeeding (focusing on nipple trauma) the risk of painful nipple trauma is significantly increased when using commonly taught forceful breastfeeding techniques. Many women share that these forceful techniques ‘just don’t feel right’ and complain of shoulder and lower back pain.

Comfort for the Mother

Finding a comfortable breastfeeding position can help prevent common issues like back pain, neck strain, and most importantly, sore nipples.

Effective Milk Transfer

Correct positioning ensures the baby is not forced to the breast by the back of the head, neck, or shoulders and can use full potential to vacuum the nipple and breast, which is essential for effective milk transfer.

Baby's Health & Easiness

Avoiding restriction of the baby’s head, neck, and spine ensures the baby is in alignment and avoids activating instinctive reflexes to resist, such as the Moro reflex, which reduces the risk of nipple trauma.

Bonding and Emotional Well-being

Breastfeeding positions for newborns promote close physical and eye contact, strengthening the emotional bond between mother and baby. A gentle approach is essential to help breastfeeding be enjoyable and comfortable for both mother and baby.

Addressing Specific Needs

Every mother and baby are unique. As mentioned previously, it’s important to find a position that works for you in your unique situation, such as mothers recovering from a C-section, or mothers tandem feeding twins simultaneously.

Preparing for Breastfeeding Before Birth

Preparing for breastfeeding before you give birth to your baby is such an important aspect of feeling confident and well-informed as you approach your estimated due date:

1. Educate Yourself

Investing in an evidence-based education program that provides a support network for you throughout your pregnancy and once you have your baby in your arms provides you with the knowledge and reassurance you need to feel secure in your ability to breastfeed your newborn.

2. Create a Support System

Connect with local breastfeeding support groups, either in person or online. Join a Facebook Community of like-minded women who would like to be in control of their birth and breastfeeding journey.

3. Prepare Your Home

Set up a comfortable, quiet breastfeeding area with a supportive chair. Chat with your friends and family about how they may be able to help out with household chores or other children in your family.

4. Learn how to avoid Challenges

Empower yourself with quality education to learn how you can avoid common breastfeeding challenges such as latch problems, sore nipples, breast engorgement, and mastitis.

5. Make a Plan and Include Your Partner

It’s important to acknowledge that things don’t always go as planned. However, if you have a plan in place, it provides your partner or advocate with the knowledge to be able to support you in unexpected situations. Having a plan also ensures that your partner is informed and supportive of your breastfeeding goals, providing practical and emotional support, especially in the early days.

Overview of Common Breastfeeding Positions

Breastfeeding positions for newborns can significantly impact both the comfort and effectiveness of breastfeeding for both mother and baby. Here’s an overview of the most common breastfeeding positions:

Cradle Hold - Highly recommended

The Cradle Hold is one of the most traditional and commonly used breastfeeding positions. Dr Robyn Thompson, midwife and founder of The Thompson Method, highly recommends that a mother gently cradles her baby with her elbows relaxed by her side. Here's how it's done:

• Sit upright, well supported, and gently cradle your baby in your arms.
• Baby’s head resting in the crook of your arm.
• Your baby’s body is facing yours.
• Gently support your baby’s back with your arm and hand.
• Gently guide your baby’s lips over your nipple (not nipple to nose).
• Observe Face to Breast Symmetry and gently adjust as required.
• Avoid forcing your baby to your breast at any time.

Pic: Dr Robyn Thompson showing a mother the cradle hold

Cross-Cradle Hold - Not recommended

In Dr Robyn’s PhD research, the Cross-Cradle Hold or Technique is closely associated with painful nipple trauma. 85% of the women in Dr Robyn’s research who were experiencing painful nipple trauma were taught the cross cradle technique. This is where you hold your baby by the back of the head, neck, or shoulders and force your baby towards your nipple and breast. This is often accompanied by redirecting your nipple to your baby’s nose.

Some women may use the cross cradle technique without experiencing nipple pain. For these women, it is encouraged to continue doing whatever works best, provided there is no pain or discomfort.

Pic: Cross Cradle Hold is not recommended 

Football Hold

The Football Hold may be useful for mothers who have had a caesarean section or have large breasts.

• Sit comfortably upright.
• Gently hold your baby beside you, under your arm, like holding a football (feet towards the back).
• Support your baby’s back and neck with your arm and hand, ensuring your baby is safely supported.
• Please avoid holding your baby’s or neck tightly as this restricts your baby’s ability to instinctively seek your nipple and breast.
• Gently guide your baby towards your breast, with lips over nipple, observing face to breast symmetry to avoid nipple pain.

Pic: Football Hold

Side-Lying Position

Some women choose the Side-Lying position for nighttime feedings. While this can be convenient, close observation of face to breast symmetry is required to reduce the risk of nipple pain.

• Lie on your side with your baby lying parallel to you.
• Use a pillow to support your head and another pillow behind your back for extra support. Your baby’s mouth should be level with your nipple.
• Guide your baby’s mouth to your nipple, ensuring a good latch.

Pic: Side Lying Position

Identifying and Correcting Uncomfortable Breastfeeding Positions

Here are some common signs of incorrect positioning and tips for correction:

Signs of Uncomfortable Breastfeeding Positions

Pain or Discomfort:

• Persistent nipple pain or soreness, cracked or bleeding nipples.
• Fussiness or crying during feeding, frequent detachment from the breast.

Pic: Breastfeeding Pain

Ineffective Feeding:

• Breasts feel engorged even after feeding, blocked ducts, or mastitis.
• Slow weight gain, short feeding sessions (less than 10 minutes), or frequent feeding without satisfaction.

Clicking:

• Clicking or smacking sounds during feeding.

Practical Tips for Success

Successful breastfeeding positions for newborns may require practice, patience, and support. Here are some practical tips to help ensure a positive breastfeeding experience:

• Surround yourself with supportive people, such as family, friends, and healthcare professionals who support you in your breastfeeding goals.
• Aim to feed from both breasts with a rest and digest, around 7 times in 24 hours.
• Drink water for adequate hydration and eat a balanced diet to support your breast milk production.

Bottom Line

Finding the right breastfeeding position for you will significantly enhance your breastfeeding experience, particularly in relation to reducing your risk of or overcoming painful nipple trauma. While The Thompson Method highly encourages a mother to gently cradle her baby with elbows relaxed by her side, it’s important to respect every woman’s choice as to how she feeds her baby.

Every mother and baby pair is unique, so finding what works best for you is essential. With patience, practice, education, and support, successful breastfeeding is achievable.

For a comprehensive approach to breastfeeding that focuses on a gentle and evidence-based approach, consider exploring the Thompson Method Breastfeeding Program. This method offers valuable insights and lifetime support to help you and your baby enjoy a comfortable and successful breastfeeding experience.