A closer bond is often experienced by breastfeeding mothers because of the choice to nourish your child in this way. While some mothers may face challenges, the below positions have been known to help with such challenges and enhance the benefits of breastfeeding in multiple ways.
The Traditional Cradling Position
While this position may seem the most natural for mom and baby, if you have a smaller baby or your baby has trouble latching, this may not be the best nursing position. Your baby, in this position, should be on their back horizontally and resting comfortably. If nursing from the left breast, their head will rest in the crook of the left arm. If nursing from the right breast, their head will rest in the crook of the right arm. The rest of your arm will be under baby's back and you need to make sure their spine, neck and head are fully supported, while their nose is in line with the nipple they are feeding from.
"Football" Position
Perhaps you have heard about holding your baby "like a football"? This common position is used in nursing as well as every day. You will put your arm under baby while supporting them by using your palm on their back and supporting their head.
Relax and Snuggle Position
This position is where your boppy or pillow come in handy the most. In the middle of the night or when you and baby (or just you) are exhausted, you lay on your side, propped with pillows behind you and baby is laid on their side next to your breast. Bring your arm over your head to cradle baby's and make sure it is properly placed.
With my son, I had to lay him across a pillow or boppy on my lap, while my hand cradled his head. If you use this position, just be careful as your palm could create a suction on their ear and hurt their eardrum.
A boppy pillow, or any pillow in general, is a real lifesaver if you are like I am, and want to be comfortable while you nurse. Boppy pillows are curved so they can sit around your waist comfortable and perfectly without sliding like a regular pillow would. What are your favorite or most go-to positions if you've already been down the block with breastfeeding? Let me know in the comments!