Getting Comfortable
If you're a new mom, breastfeeding
your newborn may seem complicated until you've had some practice. But a little preparation
can help you feel more comfortable.
Before you begin nursing, take a look at your surroundings. Many mothers like to
sit in a glider or in a cozy chair with armrests. Footstools and pillows can provide
extra support (try donut-type nursing pillows or "husband" back pillows with arms
on each side for nursing in bed).
It's also important to find a comfortable nursing position (or hold) for both you
and your baby. Here are some common ones to consider.
The Cradle Hold

This is the first hold many mothers will try, often soon after their babies are
born. To start, cradle your baby's head in the crook of your arm with your baby's
nose opposite your nipple. Use that hand to support your baby's bottom. Turn your
baby on his or her side, so that your baby is belly to belly to you. Then, raise your
baby to your breast. You can support your breast with your other hand.
The Cross-Cradle or Crossover Hold

This hold is similar to the cradle hold, but your arms are positioned differently.
Instead of supporting your baby's head in the crook of your arm, use the hand of that
arm to support your breast. Your opposite arm should come around the back of your
baby. Support your baby's head, neck, and shoulder by placing your hand at the base
of your baby's head with your thumb and index finger at your baby's ear level. Like
the cradle hold, your baby will be belly to belly to you. You may need to use a pillow
on your lap to raise your baby to nipple level.
The cross-cradle position allows you to have more control over how your baby latches
on (takes the breast into his or her mouth). Many moms find that they're able to get
their babies latched on more deeply with this hold.
The Side-Lying Position

This position is comfortable for mothers who've had a cesarean section (C-section)
because the baby doesn't put pressure on the mother's abdomen. Mske sure that you
return your baby to the crib or bassinet before falling asleep.
Start by lying on your side with your baby on his or her side, facing you. Your
baby should be positioned so his or her nose is opposite your nipple. Use your lower
arm to cradle your baby's back, or you can tuck a rolled-up receiving blanket behind
your baby to help nestle your little one close to you while you use your arm to support
your own head. You can support your breast with your other hand.
The Clutch or Football Hold

This is also a good position for the mom who's had a C-section and also for mothers
with large breasts or small babies. Mothers with twins who want to feed the babies
at the same time may also choose this position.
The football hold allows babies to take milk more easily — which is also
good for mothers with a forceful milk ejection reflex (or let
down).
To achieve the clutch (or football) hold, place a pillow next to you. Cradle your
baby — facing upward — in your arm. Use the palm of your hand on that
same arm to support his or her neck, and nestle your baby's side closely against your
side. Your baby's feet and legs should be tucked under your arm. Then lift your baby
to your breast.