3 correct breastfeeding positions every mum should know

You can sit or lie down to breastfeed and choose whichever way of holding your baby feels most comfortable and convenient. But make sure your baby's ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line, with your baby lying on their side facing you, tummy to tummy and chest to chest.

A common mistake is laying the baby on their back with only the head turned towards the breast. This makes breastfeeding uncomfortable for your baby and is bad for their neck, and can sometimes cover your baby's nose and make it hard to breathe.

Some sitting breastfeeding positions:

- Traditional cradle hold: In the cradle hold, use the elbow on the same side as the breast your baby is feeding from to support their head, your forearm to support their back, and your hand on their upper bottom. Your other hand supports their lower bottom and legs. Both arms form a firm curve. Keep your elbow tucked in towards your body rather than angled outwards, to avoid pressing your baby's head too close to your breast..

- Cross-cradle hold: For babies who don't latch well yet, you can use the cross-cradle hold, holding your baby with the opposite arm. In this position, if your baby feeds from your right breast you hold them with your left arm, and vice versa. Open your hand in a C shape to support your baby's neck, with your arm holding your baby close to your body. You can put a pillow under your thigh to support your baby better.

- Football hold: This position is often used by mums of twins or after a caesarean. Put a pillow on your lap high enough to rest your baby on, so that your nipple is level with your baby's mouth. Your baby's tummy is pressed against your body.

If you breastfeed lying down, lie on your side and turn your baby's whole body on its side close to you. You can use a pillow or your hand behind your baby's back to hold them. Keep your baby's head higher than their body to prevent reflux.

You should also adjust the position to suit your body and breast shape so your baby latches well and you are both comfortable. Thank you for your question.

References: tudu.com.vn