Breastfeeding Positions

There are quite a few different options out there, based on the particular nursing session – the location where you’re nursing, any special needs or difficulties your baby might be having, your baby’s preferences, et cetera.

Feel free to switch up your breastfeeding positions – some people say that this helps prevent clogged milk ducts because of the different ways your baby will nurse in different positions – give them all a try!

Cradle Hold

Basically, whichever side you’re nursing on, position your baby in the crook of that arm – so if you’re nursing on the right breast, her head will be supported by your right arm.

From there, align your right arm and hand down the baby’s back (with your hand holding onto her bottom or hip); you can use your left hand to help position your breast, or just wrap it around your right arm for extra support, cuddling or stroking her cheek or the bottom of her foot when she starts dozing off during a nursing session (which happens often during those first few months of your baby’s life!).

Cross-Cradle Hold

When nursing on your left side, use your right arm to support the baby from underneath, with your right arm holding onto the base of her head and back of her neck. Your right forearm will be along the baby’s back and bottom for support, and your right hand can cup the back of her head and base of her skull for support and positioning her toward the nipple.

Your left hand will support the majority of the baby’s head from underneath, and can be used to help gently position her so that she can latch on properly. (This is one the breastfeeding positions where a nursing pillow is almost a requirement – you’ll need that support!)

I find this breastfeeding position to be the trickiest (there’s just so much fumbling), but if your baby’s having a hard time latching on or doesn’t have adequate head and neck control or support yet, this can be a really good one.

Football Hold

And if you’re mom to a singleton, this breastfeeding position will work especially well if you’re recovering from a C-section or even if you have clogged milk ducts, as it might help position your baby’s chin toward the blockage to work it out. (Hey, call it an old wives’ tale if you must, but sometimes it really works!)

First, wrap the nursing pillow around the side of your waist, on the side you’ll be nursing on. Then, sidle your baby underneath your arm, but make sure to scootch her up far enough so that she can easily reach your nipple – in other words, hold her like you’re tucking a football underneath your arm. (This position is the one exception to the “no nursing on her back” rule – your baby will likely be almost completely on her back.)

From there, use your forearm to support her back and that hand to support and position her head for nursing. If needed, you can use your opposite hand to help position your breast.

Lying Down

If that sounds like you, then you’ve found the right position!

With your baby lying down next to you (and facing you), extend the arm underneath you above your head on the bed (either straight out or folded – whatever’s most comfortable for you). With your other arm, scoop up your baby and bring her to your breast. You can use the hand of your extended arm to help position your baby’s head as well.

If it seems like your baby’s having a hard time reaching your nipple, it’s okay to prop a small pillow or blanket underneath her head so that she’s not craning her neck to get to you.

And don’t forget YOUR support either – it helps to wedge a pillow against your back and maybe even one between your knees to help keep your spine aligned.


No matter what breastfeeding positions you end up using, try to remember the following:

• Bring the baby up to your breast – don’t hunch over to bring your breast to her.

• In the cradle and cross-cradle holds, your baby’s tummy should be right up against yours – not with her lying on her back or stomach and her head twisted toward the breast. Her head and body should be in a straight line against yours.

• Check for a proper latch; if it’s not working and she’s not latching on well or getting frustrated, try another position.

• When possible, nurse in a comfortable spot that allows you to support your back, whether you’re seated upright or lying down.

• Nursing pillows can be a huge help with many of these positions!

• Try to switch the side you start on with each feeding session – it’s been said that this can help boost milk production.

Experiment a bit and have some fun – nursing your baby should be a joy for the both of you!

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