Chapter 4 – Breastfeeding Positions

In the early stages of breastfeeding, when mother and baby are getting to know each other, it can be very helpful to try different positions. This not only supports a good start to breastfeeding but also helps make the feeding a moment of wellness and relaxation for both. The position that gives the baby the most freedom is the same as the breast crawl: the mother leans back against some cushions propped up on a sofa, the headboard, or an armchair, places the baby on her chest, tummy to tummy, in an upright position, and lets the baby find the nipple and latch on. The mother is in a relaxed position and the baby can move freely and follow their instinct.

This position is particularly suggested when the newborn has trouble latching or when the mother’s let-down reflex is strong: gravity reduces the milk flow and the baby can detach if too much milk comes out. For early feedings, the transition hold is also recommended: it helps the mother guide the latch while making the baby feel safe and secure, so they can relax and focus solely on nursing. The mother supports the baby with one arm, holding them close to her body with the baby’s feet tucked under her armpit, and latches them onto the opposite breast. When the baby’s body is fully supported, they learn to latch and suck properly more easily.

Mothers must also be comfortable so they can relax during feedings, avoiding muscle strain in the neck, shoulders, and back. For example, a pillow under the arm supporting the baby can help relieve some of the weight. The transition hold is a variant of the cradle position, used by most mothers, especially outside the home. The mother holds the baby with one arm, facing her with their nose aligned with the nipple, latching onto the same side, keeping the other hand free.

Another option is the rugby or underarm position: the baby’s body is placed under the mother’s arm on the same side of the feeding breast. The mother supports the baby’s head with her hand, facing the nipple, and the feet point toward her back. This position is helpful after a cesarean, since the baby doesn’t press on the scar. It’s also useful when the mother has large breasts and wants to better control the latch or when the baby is sleepy, as this position allows for a strong milk flow right from the start.

After a cesarean or immediately after birth—or whenever the mother wants to rest—feeding while lying on the side is also possible. The mother lies next to the baby, their bodies close, the baby’s face in front of the breast and nose aligned with the nipple, supporting them in position by placing her arm behind their back.

Finally, there’s the “wolf position”, recommended in cases of clogged ducts or breast engorgement. The baby lies on their back in the middle of the bed (or on a cushion if needed), while the mother gets on all fours over the baby to nurse from above. Gravity and the baby’s suction help drain the milk and relieve breast tension. Whatever position is chosen—and each mother-baby pair will find their best fit through trial and error—it is always important to ensure a correct latch. The baby’s nose should be aligned with the nipple, the mouth wide open and a large part of the areola, not just the nipple, should be in the mouth.

During feeding, the baby naturally alternates between sucking and swallowing, and there should be no clicking or other noises. If the latch is incorrect or painful, gently detach the baby and try again. Breastfeeding should never be painful. If a mother feels unsure about how to position her baby correctly, it’s best to seek help from a breastfeeding expert right away: a midwife from the health clinic, a La Leche League volunteer, or a certified IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). This professional figure is specialized in the clinical management of breastfeeding and human lactation and is trained according to the IBLCE (International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners) standards, created in the U.S. in 1985 to ensure consistent, high-quality training.