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The correct position for breastfeeding is the most important factor for your success. For this, the mother must be in a correct and comfortable position and the baby must take the breast correctly so that there is no injury to the nipples and the baby can drink more milk.
Each baby has its own rhythm to feed itself, some are able to breastfeed satisfactorily for about 5 minutes while others may need more time, however the most important thing is to be able to get the breast correctly, for this the baby you must open your mouth wide before placing it on the breast, so that the chin is close to the chest and the mouth covers the nipple as much as possible.
If the baby is holding only the nipple, with the mouth more closed, it is necessary to reposition it, because in addition to hurting the mother caused small cracks in the nipple, the milk will not come out, leaving the baby irritated.
The most used positions in daily breastfeeding are:
1. Lying on her side on the bed
The breast that is closest to the mattress should be offered and for the woman to be more comfortable, she can rest her head on her arm or on a pillow. This position is very comfortable for both mother and baby, being useful at night or when the mother is very tired.
It is always important to check that the baby's grip is correct, as it is possible to prevent complications, such as the appearance of cracks in the nipples. Here's how to treat cracked nipples.
2. Sitting with the baby lying on your lap
Place the baby on your lap and sit comfortably on a chair or sofa. The correct position consists of placing the baby's tummy against your own, while the baby is held with both arms under your little body.
3. Sitting, with the baby in the "piggyback position"
The baby should sit on one of the thighs, facing the breast and the mother will be able to hold it, supporting her back. This position is ideal for babies older than 3 months and who already hold the head well.
4. Standing
If you want to breastfeed while you are standing, you can lay the baby on your lap but you should place one of your hands between the baby's legs to support it better.
5. No sling
If the baby is insling, should be kept sitting or lying down, depending on the position where he is already accommodated, and offer the breast that is closest to his mouth.
The baby's weight will be supported by the sling and you can keep your hands a little more free, making it a good position for when you're in the kitchen or shopping, for example.
6. Sitting with your baby on your side, under your arm
Lay the baby down, but pass it under one of your arms and give the breast that is closest to the baby's mouth. To stay in this position, a cushion, pillow or breastfeeding cushion must be placed to accommodate the baby. This position is great for relieving tension in the mother's back while breastfeeding.
The positions for breastfeeding twins may be the same, however, the mother to use these positions must breastfeed one twin at a time. Check out some positions to breastfeed the twins at the same time.