Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, providing essential nutrients and fostering a strong bond. However, achieving comfort and effectiveness while breastfeeding is important not only for your baby’s health but also for your well-being. While there are various positions that can help make breastfeeding a pleasant experience, there are certain positions that you should avoid for both your baby’s safety and your comfort. In this article, we will explore the positions that you should avoid while breastfeeding, as well as the reasons why they should be avoided.
1. The Flat-Lying Position
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
One of the most common mistakes new mothers make is feeding their baby while lying completely flat on their back. Although it might seem comfortable, this position can lead to several issues for both the baby and the mother.
For the baby, lying flat can increase the risk of choking. In this position, the baby’s throat and airway are not aligned properly, which could result in milk flowing too quickly or not being swallowed properly. This increases the chances of milk coming up into the baby’s throat or even causing aspiration, where milk can enter the windpipe and lead to coughing or choking.
For the mother, the flat-lying position puts a strain on the neck and back. Breastfeeding involves a lot of upper body engagement, and lying flat removes the natural support of your arms, shoulders, and spine, which can lead to discomfort, soreness, or even injury if used repeatedly.
How to Avoid This Position
To avoid the flat-lying position, try using a more upright position, such as the cradle hold or cross-cradle hold, which allow for better alignment of both the baby and your body.
2. The Cradle Hold with Baby’s Head Too Low
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
In the cradle hold position, the baby rests in the crook of the mother’s arm. While this position is comfortable for many mothers, it can become problematic if the baby’s head is positioned too low. When the baby’s head is not aligned with the breast at the nipple level, it can lead to ineffective latch-on, making it difficult for the baby to properly latch and extract milk. Additionally, if the baby’s head is lower than the breast, milk flow may not be as smooth, which can frustrate the baby and lead to poor feeding.
For the mother, trying to bring the breast down to the baby’s level, rather than the baby coming up to the breast, can cause unnecessary strain on your arm, shoulder, and neck muscles. This can lead to discomfort or even muscle fatigue over time.
How to Avoid This Position
Ensure that your baby’s head is level with your breast in the cradle hold position. You can use a pillow or a breastfeeding cushion to raise the baby to the correct height. The baby’s body should be facing you, with their tummy to your tummy, and their head should align directly with your nipple.
3. The Side-Lying Position Without Proper Support
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
The side-lying position can be a great way to breastfeed, especially during night feeds, as it allows the mother to rest while nursing. However, without proper support, this position can be ineffective and even uncomfortable. If the baby is not positioned properly while side-lying, they may not be able to latch properly, resulting in pain for the mother and less milk for the baby.
In this position, the baby needs to be aligned so that their mouth is directly at the breast and their nose is not obstructed. If the baby is not positioned correctly, they may struggle to latch or even suffocate. Additionally, if the mother does not have adequate support for her arm, back, or head, she may strain herself, especially if she is breastfeeding for extended periods.
How to Avoid This Position
If you prefer the side-lying position, make sure to use pillows or cushions to support your body and the baby. Ensure the baby’s body is facing you, their nose is clear for breathing, and their mouth is aligned with the breast. Keep your back straight and avoid slouching, as this can put unnecessary pressure on your spine.
4. The Laid-Back Position Without Proper Posture
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
The laid-back position, also known as biological nurturing, is a relaxed position where the mother reclines slightly and allows the baby to find the breast on their own. This position can be helpful for promoting a natural feeding rhythm, but it is important to maintain proper posture. Without proper positioning of your body, it can be difficult for the baby to latch effectively.
If your back is too arched or your shoulders are too rounded, you might experience back pain, and the baby may struggle to latch correctly. The laid-back position also works best when the baby is placed on your chest, allowing them to crawl up toward the breast naturally. If the baby is not placed correctly, there’s a risk of ineffective feeding and frustration for both mother and baby.
How to Avoid This Position
When practicing the laid-back position, ensure that you are comfortably reclined with good posture. Support your back with pillows if necessary and make sure that the baby is positioned on your chest, their body aligned with yours. Avoid leaning too far back, as this may hinder your baby’s ability to latch and feed.
5. The Football Hold Without Proper Arm Support
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
The football hold, where the baby is tucked under the mother’s arm and held along her side, is a great position for mothers who have had a cesarean section or for those with larger breasts. However, this position requires proper support of the baby and your arm. Without the correct support, you risk straining your arm, wrist, or shoulder muscles, which can be painful and lead to discomfort during long nursing sessions.
Additionally, if the baby’s body is not positioned correctly in this hold, they may not latch effectively, which can cause discomfort for the mother and frustration for the baby.
How to Avoid This Position
Make sure you are holding the baby in a way that supports their neck, back, and head while also supporting your own arm. Use a pillow or cushion under your elbow to reduce strain on your arm. The baby’s body should be facing you, with their mouth level with the breast for optimal latching.
6. The Cross-Cradle Hold with Unbalanced Positioning
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
The cross-cradle hold is a very popular breastfeeding position where the mother holds the baby with the opposite arm (left arm for a right-handed person, for example) to provide support. While this is a great position for getting a deep latch, it can become problematic if the mother is not sitting upright or if the baby is positioned too far from the breast.
In an unbalanced cross-cradle position, the baby might not be able to latch effectively, leading to sore nipples or inadequate feeding. Additionally, the lack of support for your own body can result in neck, back, or shoulder pain after extended nursing sessions.
How to Avoid This Position
When using the cross-cradle hold, make sure you are sitting comfortably with a straight back. Use a pillow or cushion to help bring the baby to the right height, ensuring that the baby’s mouth aligns with your nipple. Support your baby’s head and neck with your hand, and avoid slumping or leaning forward during the feeding.
7. Feeding While Standing or Moving
Why This Position Should Be Avoided
While it may seem practical to breastfeed while standing or moving, this position can lead to several issues. When standing, it can be difficult to get the right angle for a good latch, which can result in ineffective feeding or nipple pain. Additionally, moving while breastfeeding increases the risk of awkward positioning, which may make it difficult for the baby to latch properly.
For the mother, standing or walking while breastfeeding can strain the back, legs, and neck. It’s important to have proper support while breastfeeding to prevent any physical discomfort or fatigue.
How to Avoid This Position
To avoid breastfeeding while standing or moving, find a comfortable spot to sit or recline while nursing. Use pillows or cushions to support both yourself and your baby during the feeding. This will help ensure that both you and your baby are in a position that allows for a good latch and comfortable feeding experience.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is an intimate and rewarding experience for both mother and baby. However, ensuring proper positioning is essential for comfort and effectiveness. Avoiding certain positions, such as lying flat, unbalanced cradle holds, or feeding while standing, can help improve your breastfeeding experience. Always remember to align your baby’s head with your breast, use proper support for your arms and back, and maintain a comfortable posture to make feeding easier for both you and your little one. By taking care of your positioning, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable and successful breastfeeding journey.
Related Topics:
