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Parentingweb's Guide to Breastfeeding Basics
Positioning
While postioning might seem awkward at first, it will soon be second nature to you. Have a nurse, or a breastfeeding specialist show you the basic positions while you are in the hospital. If you have a midwife, she will be able to help get you started. In the interest of simplicity, I will keep the positioning information fairly brief. I don't want to make this seem harder than it is. As long as you are following the following basic "rules" for positioning, you should be fine breastfeeding in any position you like. You can get more information (or help) from a LLL meeting, a lactation consultant or a good breastfeeding book.
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The best position is the one that is comfortable for you. As your confidence increases, do vary the position you use as this can help to prevent blocked ducts by ensuring the baby is emptying all of the milk ducts regularly. Varying your position also rotates the pressure on your nipples which prevents nipple pain.
If you are in a chair you may want to rest your feet on a low footstool or a thick phone
book with your knees slightly raised. No matter which position you are in, your baby should be level with your breast, with your nipple between her nose and mouth before latch-on. She will then tilt her head back slightly to reach the nipple. Hold her close so she does not tug at your breast while feeding. If she has to use suction to keep your breast in her mouth, it is very likely to be painful for you and cause injury to your nipple. If you need to support your breast use the C hold. Rest your thumb lightly on top of the breast with your four fingers underneath to support its weight. Your fingers should not be on the areola. The C hold helps direct the nipple and areola into the baby's mouth and helps the baby latch on. Visualize aiming your nipple to the back of your baby's throat.  Support her head and back, but do not hold onto her head too firmly. If the back of her head is locked in a firm grip she may instinctively try to bend away. Do not press on your breast with your fingers to keep your breast away from the baby's nose or you will distort the shape of your breast and your baby may be unable to latch on well. When well positioned and properly latched, she will be able to breathe through the sides of her nostrils. |
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