The Football Hold, Cross-Cradle, and More: A Guide to Breastfeeding Positions

1. Cradle Hold

Steps:

• Sit in a comfortable chair with armrests or on a bed with pillows. 

• Place your baby across your lap, facing you. 

• Support your baby's head with the crook of your arm, ensuring their nose is towards your nipple. 

• Place their lower arm under yours. 

• Ensure their ear, shoulder, and hip are in a straight line. 

Tips:

• Use a stool to support your feet if sitting in a chair to avoid leaning forward. 

• Avoid this position if you've had a caesarean section, as it may put pressure on the scar. 

2. Lying on Your Side

Steps:

• Lie on your side with your baby facing you, tummy to tummy. 

• Use pillows for back support and to keep your baby aligned. 

• Guide your baby's head to your breast with your free arm. 

Tips:

• Ensure your baby's ear, shoulder, and hip are aligned. 

• Remove any support pillows after feeding. 

3. Laid-Back Nursing

Steps:

• Lean back on a sofa or bed with pillows supporting your back. 

• Place your baby on your front, tummy to tummy. 

• Guide your baby to your nipple while supporting them. 

Tips:

• This position is excellent for mothers who have had a caesarean section, as it keeps the baby away from the incision. 

4. Football Hold (Rugby Hold)

Steps:

• Sit in a chair with a pillow or cushion at your side. 

• Position your baby under your arm, with their hips close to yours. 

• Support their neck with your hand and guide them to your nipple. 

Tips:

• Use a pillow to support your arm and baby. 

• This position helps avoid pressure on the tummy and is great for twins. 

5. Koala-Hold (Straddle-Hold)

Steps:

• Have your baby sit on your thigh or hip, facing you. 

• Ensure their back and head are upright while feeding. 

Tips:

• This position is best for older babies who can sit unaided but can be used with newborns with extra support. 

6. Cross-Cradle Hold

Steps:

• Sit upright and hold your baby across your chest with the arm opposite the breast you're using. 

• Support your baby's head and guide them to your nipple. 

Tips:

• Use a pillow across your lap for added support. 

• This position is helpful for babies who struggle to latch deeply. 

7. Upright Breastfeeding

Steps:

• Sit upright with your baby straddling your thigh or on your hip. 

• Ensure their spine and head are upright while feeding. 

Tips:

• This position is convenient when out and about or if you have mobility issues. 

Comparing Breastfeeding Positions

Finding Your Perfect Position