Getting the Correct Postion for Breast Feeding

Friday, February 26th, 2010 at 2:26 pm

For some people, the process of breast feeding seems to come natural, although there’s a level of skill required for successful feeding and a correct technique to use. Incorrect positioning is one of the biggest reasons for unsuccessful feeding and it can even injure the nipple or breast quite easily.

By stroking the baby’s cheek with the nipple, the baby will open its mouth towards the nipple, which should then be pushed in so that the baby will get a mouthful of nipple and areola. This position is known as latching on. A lot of women prefer to wear a nursing bra to allow easier access to the breast than other normal bras.

The length of feeding time will vary. Regardless of the duration of feeding time, it’s important for mothers to be comfortable. The following are positions you can use:

1. Upright – The sitting position where the back is straight.

2. Mobile – Mobile is where the mother carries her baby in a sling or carrier while breast feeding. Doing this allows the mother to breast feed in the work of everyday life.

3. Lying down – This is good for night feeds or for those who have had a caesarean section.

4. On her back – The mother is sitting slightly upright, also a useful position for tandem breast feeding.

5. On her side – The mother and baby both lie on their sides.

6. Hands and knees – In this feeding position the mother is on all fours with the baby underneath her. Keep in mind, this position isn’t normally recommended.

Anytime you don’t feel comfortable with a feeding position, always stop and switch to a different position. Each position is different, while some mothers prefer one position, other’s may like a totally different position. All you need to do is experiment and see which position is best for you.

Find tips about causes of breast cancer and breast cancer stages at the Breast Cancer Prognosis website.