Best Breastfeeding Positions (That Aren't the Cradle Hold)

Breastfeeding your baby in the side-lying position will allow you to get more rest in the early weeks. You will need to use pillows to support yourself and the baby. At first, you may need some help getting the baby positioned properly so she can latch on correctly.

• First, lie on your side with a pillow under your head.
• Have Baby lying on his side facing you with his mouth in line with your nipple and his knees pulled in close to your body. (You may be comfortable with the baby lying directly on the bed, or you may want to place your arm under him.)
• Lean into the pillows that are behind your back.
• Offer your breast to Baby by supporting it with your fingers underneath and your thumb above, well behind the areola.
• Wait until Baby opens his mouth wide, then quickly pull him in close to you so he can latch on well and suck effectively.

After you get Baby started nursing, you may want to place a pillow behind his back to hold him close and tuck your arm under the pillow supporting your head, if that's more comfortable for you. Some mothers also place a pillow between their knees.

To change sides, sit Baby up and pat his back to see if he needs to bring up a burp. Then hold him flat against your chest and roll over on your back. Lie on your other side and position Baby at your other breast. This is especially good for mothers who have had a cesarean birth; while still in the hospital, you can use the side rails on the bed to help you roll over.