You already have an account? Register now

Breastfeeding positions

Three positions to breastfeed your baby in

Whichever position you use, to be in the correct position for latching on, your baby should be ‘nose to nipple and tummy to tummy’

 

Cradling

  • Hold your baby so they are lying on their side in your arms with their head in the crook of your arm and your baby’s tummy facing you
  • If you need to lean over to get a better position, use a pillow on your lap to raise your baby up to your breast to prevent getting backache
  • Use one hand to help support them and the other to move your breast to your baby
  • They should turn their head towards your nipple, ready to latch on

 

Under your arm

  • With their head to your breast, tuck their body and legs behind you through the crook of your arm
  • Make sure they are lying on their back, with their nose to your nipple
  • Use pillows to raise your baby closer to your breast if necessary
  • Use your arm and hand to support your baby and the other hand to move your breast to your baby’s mouth

 

Lying on your side

  • Lie on your side
  • Lie your baby on their side so they are facing you
  • Use your hand on their back to gently support your baby, keep them close
  • Be careful not to fall asleep

 

It’s a good idea to vary your feeding position from time to time to help clear the milk ducts in different parts of your breast and prevent or ease engorgement. 

Join the know-how programme
Free personalised emails
Free interactive applications
Helpsheets in 7 different languages
Free help and support any way you want it
And anywhere you want it with our new iPhone App Find out more