2 Ways To Nurse Lying Down!
Breastfeeding often requires staying in one position for a long (looooong) time!
If you’re uncomfortable at all or slouching, you’ll probably end up getting achy and maybe even strain some muscles.
…and holding a 6-pound baby might not SEEM heavy at first, but it definitely gets tiring after awhile!
Soon you may come to dread those marathon breastfeeding sessions…
But, guess what?! There’s a comfy alternative!
There are TWO breastfeeding positions where you can nurse lying down!
You’ll be able to finally RELAX while breastfeeding and breathe out a big sigh of relief while you take a load off (literally!).
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2 Easy Ways To Nurse Lying Down
Position #1: Laid Back Breastfeeding Position
What is laid back breastfeeding?
In our opinion, laid back breastfeeding is one of the BEST positions to feed your baby! It’s a passive breastfeeding position where you’re reclined, leaning back and your baby is tummy down on your chest.
Every part of the baby’s body is facing, touching, and closely held to your body by gravity. Gravity is essentially doing ALL the work and keeps both you and your baby together without any effort!
Benefits of laid back breastfeeding
Less work for you and easier for your baby to take the breast
Baby can take the breast more deeply, reducing the risk of latching problems
Gravity applies slight pressure along the whole front of your baby’s body, enabling innate feeding reflexes
Baby is more of an active participant in feeding and they often latch all on their own
Works well if you’re sore or are in pain
Can be used with all size babies - from preemies all the way to large toddlers
One of the best positions to feed newborns and twins
Your hands will be free cuddle baby
Great position if you have an oversupply or a forceful letdown. Gravity helps to slow down the flow for your baby
How to do laid back breastfeeding
If you want to keep it simple you just lay back, relax and allow your baby to follow their natural breastfeeding instincts. There really is no right or wrong! But here are some guidelines…
Find a bed, chair, or couch where you can lean back and get in a semi-reclined position. Make sure your head, back, shoulders and neck are well supported with pillows and cushions. Do not lay flat.
Lay your baby on you, tummy to tummy, and let your baby’s whole front touch your whole front.
Make sure baby’s cheek is near your breast.
Allow baby to get comfortable and self attach.
PROTIP - The baby can approach the breast from any angle. For example, after a c-section you can place your baby across your shoulder to feed, so that their feet are kept away from your incision.
Laid Back Breastfeeding Youtube Video
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What about co-sleeping?
While opinions on co-sleeping varies, it’s important to say that bedsharing with baby can be dangerous. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you put your baby back in their crib or bassinet after each feeding during the night.
A sidecar or bassinet that attaches to your bed is a PERFECT option if you want your baby at arm's reach. We love THIS one because it's portable, sturdy, lightweight, and affordable!
Position #2: Side-Lying Position
What is the side-lying position?
The side-lying position involves lying on your side and placing your baby alongside you on their side. You and your baby are facing each other belly to belly, with their whole front side facing you.
Side-lying position benefits
You can breastfeed in bed!
Great position if you’re sore or in pain
Gives your body some much needed rest
Good if you’ve had a c-section because baby will not be putting any pressure on your incision
Helpful position if you have large breasts
How to do the side-lying position
Get into bed with your baby and position you both lying down on your sides, tummy to tummy.
Keep your back and hips in a straight line.
Your baby’s mouth should be level with your nipple.
Place your fingers beneath your breast and lift upward.
Pull your baby in and guide them to your breast to help them latch on.
If the latch isn't right, use your finger to break the suction between the baby's mouth and your breast, and try again.
PRO TIPS - If you have a newborn and they can’t stay in the position by themselves, you can put a pillow up against the backside of their bottom. For your comfort you can bend your knees and put a pillow between your legs or put a pillow against your back.
Side Lying Position Youtube video
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