Breastfeeding Positions

Cross cradle position

Cross cradle position

This position works well:

  • if you are learning to breastfeed
  • if you have a small baby.
Cross cradle position

Cradle position

This position works well:

  • after you are comfortable with breastfeeding
Cross cradle position

Football position

This position works well:

  • if you are learning to breastfeed
  • if you have a small baby
  • if you have large breasts
  • if you have flat or sore nipples
  • if you had a caesarean birth
Cross cradle position

Side-lying position

This position works well:

  • if you find it too painful to sit
  • if you want to rest when you breastfeed
  • if you have large breasts
  • if you had a caesarean birth

Try different positions. For all positions, check that:

  • you are relaxed and comfortable
  • your back and arms are well supported
  • your baby's head and body are raised up to your breast
  • your baby's chest is facing and touching your chest (place your baby on her side except in the football position - for the football position, place your baby on her back or slightly turned to your breast)
  • your baby's nose is facing your nipple (bring baby to you instead of leaning over or pushing your nipple into your baby's mouth)
  • your baby's chin touches your breast first
  • when your baby's mouth is wide open, bring your baby close to your chest by pulling your baby's bottom closer

Last updated on October 2011