All You Need To Know About Breastfeeding
Breast milk is the best nourishment there is for babies. It is easily digestible and readily available. Some women are unable to breastfeed while others choose not to. Breastfeeding is a journey for both mother and baby. Even if second time moms who choose to breastfeed the second baby find it a whole new experience.
If you are the first-time mommy and choose to breastfeed for all the good reasons it has, you might need some motivation to explore yourself. Here is pretty much everything you need to know to get started with breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Holds
You can also use pillows for additional comfort and support however suitable. The following positions prove comfortable to mothers while supporting the baby for breastfeeding.
Keep trying different positions to find out which one works well for you and your baby altogether.
Football Hold
This is recommended if you have had a C-section, flat or inverted nipples, large breasts, or strong let-down reflux.
Hold the baby position so she is perpendicular to your body with baby lying on her back with her head at the level of your nipple.
Support the baby’s head by placing the fingers of your hand at the base of her head, her back with your forearms, her legs should be placed between your elbow and your body, and your arms should be comfortably resting.
Cross-Cradle Hold
This is good for premature babies or babies having trouble latching on.
Hold the baby with your right arm, put her to your left breast, and support your breast with your left hand. Support the baby’s head by placing the palm of your hand at the base of her head.
This position makes it easy to guide the mouth of your baby to your breast while controlling her head.
Cradle Hold
It is a common position that is comfortable for both babies and mothers.
Hold the baby with her body facing yours. Put your baby to the right breast with your left hand supporting your breast and fingers underneath the breast away from the areola. Baby should be raised to the level of the breasts. Support the baby’s head on your forearm.
Laid-back Hold
This is a casual, baby-led approach. Lie back on a breastfeeding support pillow (you can use your pillow). Place your baby flush against your body. Put your baby’s head between your breasts. Support the baby’s head as your baby searches for the latch.
Side-Lying Position
It is recommended if you have had a C-section. It also allows you to rest while the baby is breastfeeding. Position your baby so that you both are facing each other while lying down. You both should be parallel to one another. Support the baby’s head by placing the arm at the base of her head or on the bed.