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As babies grow, with practice they become faster breastfeeders. The newborn who used to feed for 40 minutes may be done in 10-15 minutes at six weeks. |
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By Nancy Mohrbacher, IBCLC, Ameda Products
Co-author of Breastfeeding Made Simple and The Breastfeeding Answer Book |
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| There is no one "right" way to hold a baby during breastfeeding. Do what feels good to you and your baby. The length of mothers' arms and the size and height of their breasts vary. So what works well for your friend may or may not work well for you. You may also find that a hold that works well at first does not work as your baby gets bigger. It's good to know a few ways of holding your baby at the breast. |
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| Find feeding positions that let you relax your shoulders and arms. If you sit up to breastfeed, choose a seat with good back support. Try a footstool and/or pillows. Some mothers like them. Others don't. |
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| Many mothers like to hold their baby in front. You can support your baby's back and head with your forearm near your wrist. Or you can support your baby's back and head with your hand from the side of the unused breast. |
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| Some mothers like to breastfeed their baby at their side. This works well after a cesarean birth because it keeps baby's weight away from the incision. Some mothers with large breasts like holding their baby this way, too. It lets them cuddle close and gives them a good view of baby's face. |
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| No matter how you hold your baby during breastfeeding, check for the following: |
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- Your baby's head, shoulders, and hips are in line, not twisted or turned.
- Your baby is directly facing the breast, no head-turning needed.
- Your baby's body is pressed against yours, with feet, bottom, and shoulders pulled in close.
- Your baby's head is free to tilt back a bit. She should come to the breast chin first.
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| Learning to breastfeed lying down is vital during the early weeks. It lets you get your rest while you feed. Always practice during your waking hours. No one learns best when half asleep. For more details, visit our on "Breastfeeding Lying Down" section. |
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| This is general information and does not replace the advice of your physician or healthcare provider. If you have a problem you cannot solve quickly, seek help right away. |
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Every baby is different, and your baby may not be average.
If in doubt, contact your physician or other healthcare provider. |
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