Breastfeeding lying down

by Jane
(UK)

My baby is nearly 5 months old and will only breasfeed properly if I'm lying in the side position on a bed. If I try to breastfeed in any other position or if we're out and about, he fusses and wriggles and throws himself backwards. If he's tired too, he screams so loudly that people stare and often come over to offer advice or help (others ask me if I've fed him or won't leave us alone), which can be really irritating, especially when I'm in the middle of trying to calm him down. Why is he like this? It's been very difficult, and i'm now too scared to go anywhere because it always ends up in disaster (he gets so hungry that he won't nap in his pram and the screams are absolutely piercing and relentless). What should I do?

answer from the lactation consultant
Wow, that is quite an ordeal.
Have you tried using a breastfeeding pillow so he is lying down while nursing? If not, I would get one of those asap.
Next I would stop nursing him in the lying down position at home. Only do it at night. During the day, do not give in to his tantrum. If he refuses to feed with the pillow (with you sitting up) or in the football hold. Then take him off the breast, put him in a swing or in his bed until he calms then try again. Change the place where you feed too. If he is accustomed to being in the bed then be in a different room or outside for the feeds.
Also, check with your doctor, he could be teething or have an ear infection and this is why he is fussy.
Hope this helps.
Liz Pevytoe, RN, IBCLC