How do I position myself when breastfeeding?

Correct positioning for you and your baby is very important as it will allow for effective breastfeeding. If you choose to breastfeed while sitting up, make sure that your back is supported and straight. Your lap should be mostly flat. Your feet should be flat and level on the floor. If your bed is too high from the floor, use a stool or books as a platform. You should have a couple of pillows handy; these can be used to support your back, or to raise your baby to the right position against your breast.

Many women breastfeed lying down, due to the comfortable, relaxing feeling this position gives. This is a good position for night time feeding, since you will be tired, and probably not in the mood to sit in an upright position. To position yourself correctly, lie as flat as you can, with a pillow under your head. Your shoulder should be on the bed surface. Use a pillow to support your back, and one between your knees; this allows you to lie far over on your side. When your baby is able to feed well, and you become more comfortable with the position, you will be able to breastfeed on your side, without the need for supporting pillows.

More questions

Why is my breastfed baby fussy in the evenings?

Babies can often be fussy in the evenings and you may find it difficult to nurse or settle them.

How can I tell if my baby is getting enough milk?

If your baby is gaining weight while being fed exclusively on breastmilk, then you have nothing to worry about. You can also check to make sure that your child is producing enough wet and dirty nappies. As long...

If I'm taking medication, do I need to stop breastfeeding?

If you are taking medication it is highly unlikely that you will need to stop breastfeeding. When taking medication only a tiny amount shows up in the milk and is almost never harmful to your baby. If a...

I've heard that breastmilk and formula are almost the same. Is this true?

Many mothers when deciding how to feed their babies are under the impression that formula is almost the same as breastmilk. This is completely untrue and by choosing breastmilk you are choosing what is best for...

Does breastmilk have enough iron for my baby?

Breastmilk has plenty of iron to last your baby at least the first six months of his life.

What are nipple shields and should I be using them?

Nipple shields are silicone covers designed to make the nipple more prominent. They are used mainly if the baby will not take the breast, the baby is born prematurely or the mother has sore nipples. There is...

Do I need to give my breastfed baby vitamin D supplements?

It is recommended by experts that all babies, including babies that are breastfed be given 5 micrograms of vitamin D3 a day. This is because recent studies have shown that mothers and children in the UK have...

My baby spits up: Is this serious?

Spitting up is very common and most young babies spit up at least once a day. This is because their digestive systems are immature which makes it very easy for their stomach contents to come back up their...

My baby keeps bringing up food and seems to be in pain when she eats. What can I do?

Your baby possibly has reflux. This is caused by a weak valve at the top of a baby’s stomach which allows their feed to come back up. Symptoms include heartburn and vomiting. You should consult with your...

My baby has diarrhea, should I stop breastfeeding?

The answer is no, definitely not.There is no benefit to you or your baby that can be gained from stopping breastfeeding. By continuing to breastfeed you will be giving your baby the best medicine possible to...