Breastfeeding Positions and Latch on

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The first step to good breastfeeding positions and latch and is getting mommy ready FIRST

Make sure mom:

Has Good posture Sitting upright or lying on side

Is Comfortable - starting out uncomfortable is not good

Well-supported with pillows (pillows are usually more managable than a nursing pillow in the first 24 hours)

Lap flat or slightly elevated

Cups breast with fingers off areola

Learn more about nursing pillows here.

What is the old saying, "a picture is worth a 1000 words". Well in this case, I could type until my hands fall off explaining how to position and latching your baby on but what works better? Seeing it. So here are some helpful video links .


Now we look at baby

Tummy to tummy or Chest to breast

Ear, shoulder, & hip aligned

At breast level, nipple to nose

Body slightly flexed with head relaxed slightly backwards (drinking position)

Body supported on pillows and by mother

Mother supports infant’s neck, base of head, shoulder girdle Now another video to reinforce this:


Signs of a GOOD latch


Signs of a BAD latch


Tips on breastfeeding multiples: twins

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