Having the right baby-friendly hospital and nursing home settings to care for your new baby is one thing, but knowing how to hold them and feed them so they’ll be comfortable and thrive as well? That’s another matter entirely. Think about it this way: If you want to keep your baby calm and happy, you need to provide them with the right kind of environment. You need a safe crib or bassinet, snug swaddle blankets or sleep sacks, soothing music, and a nursery with soft lighting and cozy colors.
Likewise, if you want to make sure your little one is getting the best possible nutrition from their first taste of solid food, you need to know how to hold them securely while feeding them at the right angle so they get the most out of their first feedings.
Which breastfeeding position should you choose?
This is a question that many new breastfeeding parents have, but it’s also one that can be difficult to answer. Ask ten different breastfeeding experts, and you’re likely to get a dozen different answers. Deciding on the best breastfeeding position can be a highly individualized process and one that you shouldn’t rush into. There are several factors to keep in mind when deciding which breastfeeding position to use.
When choosing your position, keep in mind what your baby is most comfortable with, and how they are best able to nurse. Depending on your baby, these may be different from your own preferences. First off, not all babies are the same. While there are general guidelines to be found here and there, the best way to figure out what will work best for your baby is to observe and learn from your baby. Your baby will let you know if they are comfortable, and if they are not, they’ll let you know that as well!
The Turtle
The turtle is a hands-free breastfeeding position that enables you to cradle your baby and feed them lying down. It is a good position for feeding on one breast, as it can help you to have both hands free to interact with your baby. The downside to the turtle is that your baby may end up getting too much oxygen from the air since their head is upside down and their mouth is open.
The Reclining Breastfeeding Wedge
The reclining breastfeeding wedge is a great breastfeeding position for any nursing mom who is able to get in a comfortable position while nursing their baby. Many moms find that the wedge position is good for them since it allows them to cup both hands around their baby for better positioning. The wedge position is also a good position for feeding on one side. Using the wedge can help improve your milk flow, especially as your milk shuts down during pregnancy. It can also be a helpful position while you are breastfeeding your toddler, as a sitting position may be too uncomfortable for them.
The Upright breastfeeding Cushion
If your baby is more comfortable in either the side-lying breastfeeding positions or just lying down, but you would still like to maintain some upright movement while feeding, a breastfeeding cushion is an ideal solution. The upright breastfeeding cushions have a round shape, like a beanbag, so they are comfortable to lie on your back while still providing support for your arms while you feed your baby. The upright breastfeeding cushions are great as they can be used while your baby is eating a bottle too.
The Reclining Side Bending Cradle
The prone or side-bending cradle is a great position for breastfeeding moms who want to give their baby the maximum amount of stimulation possible. The prone or side-bending cradle is great for stimulating the suck reflex, and for getting your baby to latch on and swallow your milk. The prone or side-bending cradle is best used while your baby is sleeping. This is a good position to use at night and during nap time as it is a great way to help your baby fall asleep.
Should You Use a Breastfeeding Chair?
A breastfeeding chair is an excellent option for any breastfeeding mother who would like to use a chair to help elevate their baby while they feed. The breastfeeding chair has a special pillow that is designed to hold your baby’s head in an elevated position for easier access. The breastfeeding chair is an optional accessory and can be purchased separately from the breastfeeding chair kit.
Should You Use a Breastfeeding Crib?
A breastfeeding crib is an excellent option for any breastfeeding mother who would like to use a standard crib to help elevate their baby while they feed. The breastfeeding crib has a special rail system that is designed to hold your baby in a reclined position while they sleep. The breastfeeding crib is an optional accessory and can be purchased separately from the breastfeeding crib kit.
Should You Use a Breastfeeding Stroller?
A breastfeeding stroller is an excellent option for any breastfeeding mother who would like to use a standard stroller to help elevate their baby while they feed. The breastfeeding stroller has a special system that is designed to hold your baby in a reclined position for easier access. The breastfeeding stroller is an optional accessory and can be purchased separately from the breastfeeding stroller kit.
Should You Use a Breastfeeding Tub?
A breastfeeding tub is an excellent option for any breastfeeding mother who would like to use a bathtub to help elevate their baby while they feed. The breastfeeding tub has a special stand that is designed to hold your baby in a reclined position while they feed. The breastfeeding tub is an optional accessory and can be purchased separately from the breastfeeding tub kit. A breastfeeding tub is a good option for any breastfeeding mother who is looking for a relaxing bath time experience for their baby while they feed. A breastfeeding tub is also a good option for any breastfeeding mother who is looking for a convenient way to store their breast milk while they are away from home or when they are out and about.
Should You Use a Breastfeeding Shower?
A breastfeeding shower is an excellent option for any breastfeeding mother who would like to use a shower to help elevate their baby while they feed. The breastfeeding shower has a special stand that is designed to hold your baby in a reclined position while they feed. The breastfeeding shower is an optional accessory and can be purchased separately from the breastfeeding shower kit.
