From the very first latch, your baby is learning how to feed—and you’re learning how to help. Finding a comfortable, effective breastfeeding position is one of the simplest ways to prevent pain, encourage milk transfer, and make feeding time a calm and connected experience for both of you. But there’s no one-size-fits-all. The best position is the one that supports your body and helps your baby latch deeply.
In this post, we’ll break down a few of the most popular breastfeeding positions, how to tell if your baby is latched well, and how to adjust things when it doesn’t feel quite right. Whether you're nursing a sleepy newborn or a wiggly older baby, you’ll find something here to help.
Why Positioning Matters
Good breastfeeding positioning supports…
- A deep, pain-free latch
- Efficient milk removal
- Healthy weight gain for baby
- Comfort and less strain on your back, neck, and arms
And when you’re not constantly shifting or correcting your baby’s latch, you can both relax more during feeds—essential in those early weeks when everything feels new.
The Five Most Common Breastfeeding Positions
Here are the most helpful positions to try, especially in the first few months. You can experiment with different ones depending on your baby’s age, your healing process, and your feeding goals.
1. Cross-Cradle Hold
This position offers lots of control, especially in the beginning. Hold your baby with the arm opposite the breast you’re feeding from, using your hand to gently support their head and guide them to the breast.
Great for: Newborns learning to latch
2. Cradle Hold
A more relaxed version of the cross-cradle, this classic position allows baby to lie across your body while your arm on the same side supports their head and back.
Great for: Older babies who have already mastered latching
3. Laid-Back / Biological Nurturing
You recline slightly with your baby lying tummy-down on your chest. Gravity helps them stay in position while they instinctively find the nipple.
Great for: Skin-to-skin, early feeds, natural reflexes
4. Football Hold
Tuck your baby under your arm like a football, with their body along your side and feet pointing behind you. Use your hand to support their neck and bring them to the breast.
Great for: C-section recovery, large breasts, twins
5. Side-Lying
You and your baby lie on your sides, belly to belly. This is a restful option for middle-of-the-night feeds or when you need to take pressure off a sore perineum or incision site.
Great for: Postpartum healing, nighttime nursing
Signs of a Good Latch (in Any Position)
Even the best position won’t help if the latch is shallow. Here’s what to look for:
- Baby’s mouth is wide open with lips flanged out
- Chin touches your breast, nose is close but not buried
- You can see or hear rhythmic sucking and swallowing
- No pain (some tugging is okay, but no pinching or biting)
- Your nipple looks round (not flattened) after the feed
If you’re ever unsure, reach out to a lactation consultant. Sometimes a small adjustment makes all the difference.
Positioning Tips for Comfort and Success
- Use pillows to bring baby to breast height—not the other way around.
- Support your back and arms with cushions or a nursing pillow.
- Keep baby’s head, neck, and spine aligned in a straight line.
- Make sure baby’s belly is touching yours (“tummy to tummy”).
- Watch baby’s cues (rooting, hands to mouth) and don’t wait for them to cry.
- Don’t be afraid to unlatch and reposition if it doesn’t feel right.
Pro tip: The Lolo Baby carrier can be a helpful tool for skin-to-skin contact and calming your baby before or after a feed—especially if you’re trying laid-back nursing or contact naps.
FAQ
What if breastfeeding still hurts even with good positioning?
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Pain is a signal something’s off—usually the latch. A lactation consultant can assess things like tongue tie, tension, or supply issues.
Can I nurse in a carrier?
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Yes, once you’re confident with latching and baby has good head control, you can adjust your Lolo Baby carrier for upright breastfeeding while on the go.
Should I switch positions every feed?
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You don’t have to, but switching it up can help empty different parts of the breast and prevent soreness. Do what feels best for your body and baby.
What if my baby falls asleep during feeds?
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Try switching sides, tickling their feet, or doing breast compressions to keep them active at the breast.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding isn’t about mastering one perfect position—it’s about finding what works for you. Give yourself time to try different holds, check in with your body, and adapt as your baby grows!
