The 7 Best Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns

Welcome to your breastfeeding journey. It's a unique and personal time, but it often comes with a steep learning curve and plenty of questions. One of the most common concerns for new parents is whether they are "doing it right." Finding a comfortable and effective nursing position is a fundamental piece of that puzzle. The right hold isn't just about feeding your baby. It's about ensuring a deep, painless latch, promoting efficient milk transfer, and making the experience relaxing and sustainable for both of you.

This guide is your practical playbook, designed to help you discover the best breastfeeding positions for newborns. We will move past generic advice and dive straight into actionable, step-by-step instructions for the most effective holds. You will learn not only how to get into each position, but also why and when to use it, whether you're recovering from a c-section, dealing with engorgement, or managing a sleepy baby.

Our goal is to give you the knowledge to find what works best for your unique body and your baby's needs. We’ll explore seven key positions, from the classic cradle hold to the restorative side-lying position. Each section will detail the setup, highlight the benefits, and provide solutions for common latch issues. Think of this as your personal cheat sheet for building confidence and achieving comfortable, stress-free feeding sessions right from the start.

1. Cradle Hold

The Cradle Hold is often the first position new parents picture when they think of breastfeeding. It's the classic, iconic posture where you cradle your baby across your lap, tummy-to-tummy, which helps build a sense of connection. In this position, your baby rests in the crook of the arm on the same side as the breast they are nursing from, creating a secure and intimate feeding environment.

Its widespread recognition comes from its frequent demonstration in hospital breastfeeding classes and its prominent feature in educational materials from organizations like La Leche League International. This familiarity makes it a go-to starting point for many, offering a comfortable and natural-feeling way to bond while nursing.

Setting Up the Cradle Hold

Getting comfortable is the key to a successful feeding session. Follow these steps to master the Cradle Hold:

1. Position Yourself: Sit comfortably in a chair with good back support or sit up in bed with plenty of pillows propping you up. A nursing pillow or stacked pillows on your lap can help bring your baby to the correct height without straining your back or arms.
2. Position Your Baby: Lay your baby across your lap. If you are nursing on the left breast, your baby's head will rest in the crook of your left arm. Your left hand and forearm will support their neck, spine, and bottom.
3. Ensure Alignment: Your baby’s entire body should be facing you, chest-to-chest. A crucial tip is to ensure their ear, shoulder, and hip are in one straight line. This alignment helps them swallow easily and prevents strain on their neck.
4. Bring Baby to Breast: Use your free hand to support your breast. Bring your baby to your breast, not your breast to your baby. Their nose should be level with your nipple to encourage a wide, open-mouthed latch.

Key Insight: The goal is to avoid hunching over. Bringing the baby up to your level with pillows protects your posture and prevents back pain, making feedings more sustainable and enjoyable.

When to Use This Position

The Cradle Hold is an excellent all-around position, particularly once you and your baby have established a good latch and are more comfortable with the mechanics of breastfeeding. It's great for older newborns who have developed some head and neck control.

However, it might be challenging for very young newborns or parents who need more control over their baby's head to guide them onto the breast. In those early days, the cross-cradle hold, which we'll cover next, can be an easier alternative. For parents who are still learning, getting the hang of this position is a great milestone. Comprehensive resources can help you feel more confident, and you can learn more about how to prepare for breastfeeding on Bornbir.com.

2. Cross-Cradle Hold (Transitional Hold)

The Cross-Cradle Hold is a go-to position for the early days of breastfeeding, often recommended by lactation consultants as a starting point. It's a variation of the classic cradle hold but offers significantly more control, making it one of the best breastfeeding positions for newborns. In this hold, you support your baby with the arm opposite the breast they are feeding from. This allows you to gently guide their head and ensure a deep, effective latch.

This position is a cornerstone of breastfeeding education, heavily featured in hospital lactation programs and resources like "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding." Its popularity stems from its practical design. It gives you a clear view of your baby’s mouth and your nipple, making it easier to troubleshoot latching issues as they happen.

Setting Up the Cross-Cradle Hold

Comfort and control are the main goals of this position. Follow these steps to set it up correctly:

1. Position Yourself: Sit in a comfortable, supportive chair or in bed with pillows behind your back. Use a nursing pillow or regular pillows on your lap to raise your baby to the height of your breast.
2. Position Your Baby: Lay your baby across your lap, tummy-to-tummy with you. If you plan to nurse on the left breast, support your baby with your right arm and hand. Your palm should gently cup the base of their head and neck, with your thumb and index finger behind their ears.
3. Ensure Alignment: Your baby’s body should face yours completely. Their ear, shoulder, and hip must form a straight line to facilitate easy swallowing. Your forearm will run along their back, providing full support.
4. Bring Baby to Breast: Use your free hand, in this case, your left hand, to support your breast in a U-hold or C-hold. When your baby opens their mouth wide, like a yawn, use your supporting arm to gently guide them onto the breast, chin first.

Key Insight: Supporting the baby at the base of their skull, rather than the back of their head, prevents them from reflexively pushing away from the breast. This small adjustment gives you control without forcing the latch.

When to Use This Position

The Cross-Cradle Hold is ideal for the first few weeks when you and your baby are both learning the art of breastfeeding. It is especially beneficial for premature babies, infants with a weak suck, or any situation where a precise latch is crucial. The enhanced control helps you guide your baby effectively, making it a powerful tool for building breastfeeding confidence.

As your baby gains neck strength and becomes more adept at latching, you may naturally transition to the cradle hold. However, this hold remains a valuable option anytime you need to readjust or get a better latch. For new parents looking for foundational techniques, this position is a must-try. You can find more helpful advice by exploring these breastfeeding tips for new moms from Bornbir.com.

3. Football Hold (Clutch Hold)

The Football Hold, also known as the Clutch Hold, involves tucking your baby under your arm on the same side you are nursing from, much like you would carry a football. This position keeps your baby’s body alongside you with their legs pointing toward your back. It offers you a clear view of their mouth and your nipple. It provides excellent control over your baby’s head, making it easier to guide them for a proper latch.

This position is a lifesaver for many parents, especially after a cesarean delivery, as it keeps the baby's weight away from the sensitive abdominal incision. Its supportive nature is why it's frequently taught in NICU settings and recommended by lactation consultants for babies struggling with latching, as well as for mothers nursing twins simultaneously.

Setting Up the Football Hold

Proper support is crucial for making the Football Hold comfortable and effective. Use these steps to set up the position correctly:

1. Position Yourself: Sit in a comfortable chair or on the edge of a bed with strong back support. Place a firm nursing pillow or several regular pillows next to you on the side you plan to nurse.
2. Position Your Baby: Lay your baby on the pillow beside you, tucked closely against your side. If nursing from the right breast, your baby will be on your right side.
3. Support Your Baby: Use your right arm to hold your baby. Your right hand should support the base of their head and neck, with your palm between their shoulder blades. Your forearm supports their back.
4. Bring Baby to Breast: Ensure your baby’s hips are flexed with their legs tucked around you. Their nose should be level with your nipple. Use your free hand to support your breast, then guide your baby toward it, chin first, when their mouth is wide open.

Key Insight: Having the pillow at the right height is essential. The pillow should do most of the work of supporting your baby's weight, allowing your arm to simply guide and stabilize them without strain.

When to Use This Position

The Football Hold is an incredibly versatile and one of the best breastfeeding positions for newborns in specific situations. It is highly recommended for:

• Mothers recovering from a C-section: It completely avoids pressure on the abdominal incision.
• Parents of twins: It allows you to feed both babies at the same time, one on each side.
• Mothers with large breasts: This hold can provide a better view of the latch and help position the baby effectively.
• Babies with latching difficulties or a small mouth: It gives you maximum control over your baby’s head to ensure a deep latch.

This position is also beneficial for mothers with a forceful let-down, as the baby is positioned to handle the fast flow of milk more easily. Because a good latch stimulates milk production, mastering this hold can be a key factor in your breastfeeding journey. You can find more tips on how to increase milk supply on Bornbir.com.

4. Side-Lying Position

The Side-Lying Position is a game-changer for many parents, offering a way to nurse while resting. It's especially useful for nighttime feeds and during postpartum recovery. In this relaxed posture, you and your baby lie on your sides facing each other, tummy-to-tummy, creating a calm and restorative nursing experience. Your baby is nestled closely against you, with their mouth level with the breast.

This position is a cornerstone of gentle parenting and is often recommended in postpartum recovery protocols and by lactation consultants for its low-impact nature. For families who practice safe co-sleeping, it becomes an intuitive way to meet a newborn's feeding needs throughout the night with minimal disruption to everyone's sleep.

Setting Up the Side-Lying Position

Comfort and safety are paramount for successful side-lying nursing. Follow these steps to get properly positioned:

1. Position Yourself: Lie on your side on a firm, flat surface like a bed. Avoid soft surfaces like couches or waterbeds. Place a pillow under your head for support. You may also want a pillow between your knees and a rolled-up blanket or pillow behind your back to prevent you from rolling backward.
2. Position Your Baby: Lay your baby on their side facing you, with their front pressed against your front. Their head should be in line with their spine, not tilted up or down. Your lower arm can either cradle your baby or be tucked comfortably under your own head.
3. Ensure Alignment: The baby's ear, shoulder, and hip should be in a straight line, just as in other positions. This alignment is crucial for easy swallowing. Make sure their whole body is turned toward you, not just their head.
4. Bring Baby to Breast: Use your top hand to support your breast if needed, and gently guide your baby toward your nipple. Their nose should be opposite the nipple, encouraging them to tilt their head back slightly for a deep latch.

Key Insight: When practicing the Side-Lying Position, proper pillow placement is crucial for both your comfort and the baby's latch. For mothers who find comfort in this position, it's beneficial to consider resources on the best pillows for side sleepers for optimal support to maintain proper alignment and reduce strain.

When to Use This Position

The Side-Lying Position is invaluable for several situations. It is one of the best breastfeeding positions for newborns during the night, as it allows the nursing parent to rest or even doze while the baby feeds. It is also highly recommended for parents recovering from a C-section, perineal tearing, or an episiotomy, as it puts no pressure on the abdomen or stitches.

While incredibly beneficial, this position requires careful attention to safety. Always ensure there are no pillows, loose blankets, or soft bedding near your baby's face that could pose a suffocation risk. For any discomfort, you can find helpful advice on how to address breastfeeding pain at Bornbir.com. This position offers a peaceful way to connect and nourish your baby, making it a favorite for many families.

5. Laid-Back Position (Biological Nurturing)

The Laid-Back Position, often called Biological Nurturing, taps into your baby’s innate feeding instincts. This position involves you reclining comfortably while your baby lies on your chest, tummy-to-tummy. Gravity helps secure your baby close to you. This allows them to use their natural reflexes to find the breast and self-latch, making it one of the most instinctive and best breastfeeding positions for newborns.

Popularized by Dr. Suzanne Colson, this approach is grounded in the idea that babies are born with the ability to initiate feeding when given the right environment. It’s frequently promoted by lactation consultants, especially for babies with latch difficulties or a tongue-tie, as it empowers the baby to take the lead in a relaxed, pressure-free setting.

Setting Up the Laid-Back Position

Comfort and support are essential for making this position work. Follow these steps to get set up for a successful biological nurturing session:

1. Position Yourself: Find a semi-reclined position on a couch, bed, or comfortable chair. Use plenty of pillows to support your head, neck, and back, aiming for a 45 to 65-degree angle. You should be comfortable enough to relax without feeling like you might fall asleep.
2. Position Your Baby: Place your baby directly on your chest, skin-to-skin if possible. Position them so their cheek is near your breast, and their whole front is against yours. Their feet should be supported by your body or a pillow.
3. Allow for Instincts: Let your baby’s head rest on your chest and allow them to move freely. They will begin to use their rooting and crawling reflexes to bob their head and find your nipple. You can gently guide them, but avoid forcing the latch.
4. Support and Secure: While your baby takes the lead, you can use your arms to create a secure "nest" around them. Ensure their arms are free and not trapped underneath them. Your hands can support their back and bottom without controlling their head.

Key Insight: This position uses gravity to your advantage. It helps your baby achieve a deeper latch and can be especially helpful if you have a forceful let-down, as the reclined angle slows the flow of milk.

When to Use This Position

The Laid-Back Position is incredibly versatile and can be used from the very first feed. It is particularly beneficial for mothers recovering from a C-section, as it keeps the baby’s weight off the abdominal incision. It's also recommended for babies who struggle with latching, have a tongue-tie, or seem fussy at the breast in other positions.

This position is also a fantastic tool for managing an oversupply of milk, as the baby has more control over the milk flow. If you are experiencing latching issues or want to explore this position further, a professional can provide tailored guidance. You can learn more about how to find a lactation consultant on Bornbir.com.

6. Upright/Koala Hold

The Upright or Koala Hold is a versatile position where your baby sits upright, straddling your thigh or lap while facing you. This position mimics how a koala clings to a tree. It creates a stable, tummy-to-tummy connection that can be particularly helpful for certain feeding challenges. Your baby’s spine remains straight and supported against your body, allowing gravity to aid in swallowing.

This hold is often recommended by lactation consultants for babies who struggle with reflux or have a fast milk let-down. The upright posture can help keep milk down and gives the baby more control over the flow of milk. It’s a wonderfully intuitive position that can be adapted for newborns and older babies alike, offering a unique way to bond during feeding time.

Setting Up the Upright/Koala Hold

Comfort and support are crucial for making this position work. Follow these steps to set up the Upright/Koala Hold effectively:

1. Position Yourself: Sit in a comfortable chair with excellent back support. You can also sit cross-legged on a bed or the floor, using pillows to support your back and arms.
2. Position Your Baby: Sit your baby upright on your lap, straddling one of your thighs. For example, if you are nursing from the right breast, your baby can straddle your right thigh. Their legs will wrap around your torso or be positioned on either side of your leg.
3. Ensure Alignment: Your baby’s spine and head should be straight and aligned, not slumped. Their chest should be pressed firmly against your chest, ensuring a close, secure connection.
4. Support and Latch: Use the arm on the same side as the nursing breast to support your baby’s back and neck. Your hand should support the base of their head, allowing them to tilt their head back to latch. Your baby’s mouth should be at the level of your nipple, allowing them to latch deeply without needing to crane their neck.

Key Insight: This position is excellent for babies with low muscle tone or conditions like torticollis because it provides full-body support while keeping their airway open and aligned.

When to Use This Position

The Upright/Koala Hold is one of the best breastfeeding positions for newborns dealing with specific issues, but it's also great for general use. It’s particularly beneficial for babies who experience acid reflux, as the upright posture helps prevent milk from coming back up. It is also highly effective for managing a fast milk flow, as gravity helps the baby control the pace of feeding and reduces the chances of choking or gagging.

This hold is also a great option for babies with a tongue-tie or those who have difficulty achieving a deep latch in other positions. Because you have a clear view of their mouth and can easily support their chin, it can make latching easier to manage. While it may require more arm strength to support a newborn, using a nursing pillow under your baby’s bottom can provide extra height and reduce the strain on your arms.

7. Combination/Switch Position

The Combination/Switch Position isn't a single hold but a dynamic strategy involving alternating between different positions during a single feeding or from one feed to the next. This approach combines holds like the cradle, football, and laid-back positions to address specific challenges, enhance milk removal, and improve overall comfort for both parent and baby. By changing positions, you can ensure different parts of the breast are drained more effectively.

This method is frequently recommended by lactation consultants, especially for complex feeding situations. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) often use this technique to help with issues like a weak latch, nipple pain, or low milk supply. The goal is to find a unique rotation of the best breastfeeding positions for newborns that works for your specific anatomy and your baby's needs.

Setting Up the Combination/Switch Position

Mastering this strategy is about being flexible and responsive. Here’s how you can implement it:

1. Identify Your Go-To Positions: Get comfortable with two or three basic holds, such as the cross-cradle and the football hold. Have pillows and other supports ready to make transitioning between them seamless.
2. Plan Your Switch: Decide on your strategy. You might start a feeding in the cross-cradle hold for better head control and switch to the cradle hold once your baby has a deep, established latch.
3. Execute the Transition: To switch, gently unlatch your baby by inserting a clean finger into the corner of their mouth. Reposition yourself and your baby into the next hold before encouraging them to latch on again.
4. Observe and Adapt: Pay close attention to your baby’s cues and your own comfort. If a position isn't working or becomes painful, that’s your signal to switch.

Key Insight: This isn't about constantly changing for no reason. Each switch should have a purpose, like waking a sleepy baby, targeting a clogged duct, or simply giving your arms a break.

When to Use This Position

The Combination/Switch Position is a problem-solving tool that can be used at any stage of your breastfeeding journey. It is particularly effective for managing specific challenges and optimizing the feeding experience.

This method is ideal if you're dealing with sore nipples, as changing positions alters where the pressure is placed on the areola. It's also highly effective for babies who are sleepy at the breast. The movement of switching positions can re-engage them. Furthermore, if you're experiencing recurrent plugged ducts or engorgement, rotating holds can help drain all milk ducts thoroughly. Working with a lactation professional can help you develop a personalized rotation that makes breastfeeding more successful and comfortable.

7 Best Breastfeeding Positions: Quick Comparison

Your Journey, Your Positions. When to Get Extra Support

As you’ve seen, the world of breastfeeding is rich with options. The goal isn't to perfectly replicate a diagram but to find a rhythm that works for you and your newborn. Finding the best breastfeeding positions for newborns is less about a single "correct" answer and more about building a flexible toolkit of holds that you can adapt to any situation. Whether it's the classic comfort of the cradle hold, the post-C-section ease of the football hold, or the intuitive connection of laid-back nursing, each position offers a unique set of benefits.

Your journey is a dynamic one. The position that feels awkward today might become your go-to next week. Similarly, the hold that works wonders for a sleepy daytime feed might not be practical for a restless night. Give yourself the grace to experiment, combine techniques, and use every pillow in the house to achieve true comfort. Remember, a successful latch is a team effort, and your comfort is just as critical as your baby's.

The Most Important Takeaways

Let's distill this down to the core principles that will guide you through these early weeks and months.

• Comfort is Non-Negotiable: Breastfeeding should not be painful. If you are experiencing pinching, sharp pain, or nipple damage, it’s a clear signal to adjust your position or seek professional help. A comfortable parent leads to a more relaxed and effective feeding session.
• Listen to Your Baby (and Your Body): Your baby’s cues and your own physical needs are your best guides. A fussy baby might settle better in an upright koala hold, while tired muscles may demand a side-lying position. The "best" position is the one that meets the needs of the moment.
• Flexibility is Your Superpower: Don’t feel locked into one hold. Mastering two or three different positions can help you manage common challenges like engorgement, clogged ducts, or feeding a distractible baby. It also allows you to nurse comfortably anywhere, from your bed to a park bench.

The emotional side of this journey is just as significant as the physical one. The pressure to "get it right" can feel immense, and it’s normal to have moments of frustration or doubt. If you find yourself struggling with the emotional challenges of new parenthood, a practical guide on how to cope with postpartum depression can offer valuable support and resources. You are not alone in this experience.

Ultimately, mastering these breastfeeding positions is about more than just nutrition. It’s about connection, confidence, and empowerment. It’s about building a bond with your baby and trusting the instincts of your own body. This knowledge frees you from worry and allows you to focus on what truly matters, enjoying these fleeting moments with your newborn.

When to Call for Professional Support

While experimentation is key, you should never hesitate to seek professional guidance. Reaching out is a sign of proactive, loving parenting. Consider connecting with a lactation consultant if you experience:

• Persistent pain during or after feeds.
• Nipple damage, such as cracks, blisters, or bleeding.
• Concerns about your baby's weight gain or diaper output.
• Difficulty getting your baby to latch deeply and effectively.
• Frequent fussiness or frustration at the breast.

A lactation professional can provide personalized, hands-on support. They can assess your latch, troubleshoot issues, and create a feeding plan tailored specifically to you and your baby. Their expertise can transform a challenging experience into a confident and rewarding one, ensuring you and your baby thrive.

Ready to find the perfect lactation consultant, doula, or postpartum expert to support your journey? Visit Bornbir to connect with a vetted network of maternal health professionals in your area. Bornbir makes it simple to find and book the personalized care you need to meet your breastfeeding goals with confidence.