Always ensure your newborns eyes are open and is showing signs of being hungry before you offer a feed, signs include: rooting, crying sucking fingers/fist otherwise it is easy to think the baby is not interested. Please refer to previous article for tips on feeding patterns and rousing a sleepy newborn.The cross hold position is the most recommended position to use when you first begin to feed your baby
• Position your baby facing you on his/her side with the whole body facing yours.
• Hold your right breast with your right hand and vice versa if using the left.
• Hold your right breast with your right hand and vice versa if using the left.
• Support the back of your babes head/neck with the opposite hand to enable you to control movement
• Form your fingers into a C shape whilst holding your breast, ensuring your fingers are shaped around and not over the areola.
• With your baby’s nose opposite the nipple, watch for your baby mouth to gape open then use your hand to guide the nipple toward the roof of the mouth
• Try to ensure the baby takes as much of the areola as possible and not just the nipple
• Some times you need to attempt this a few times before getting a good latch- So be patient!
• Some times you need to attempt this a few times before getting a good latch- So be patient!
The cradle position is a very common position more suitable for older babies once feeding is well established;
• Position your baby facing you on his/her side with the whole body facing yours.
• Cradle baby’s head in the bend of your arm with his body along your forearm and your hand hugging his buttocks or thigh.
Article by: Elizabeth Arthur
• Position your baby facing you on his/her side with the whole body facing yours.
• Cradle baby’s head in the bend of your arm with his body along your forearm and your hand hugging his buttocks or thigh.
Article by: Elizabeth Arthur
In need of support while breastfeeding? Blossom Mother and Child also recommend the Pregnancy Support Pillow during breastfeeding. Read more here.
