~Breast Feeding And Positioning

 

For some people, the process of breast feeding 

seems to come natural, although there's a level 

of skill required for successful feeding and a 

correct technique to use.  Incorrect positioning

is one of the biggest reasons for unsuccessful

feeding and it can even injure the nipple or 

breast quite easily.

By stroking the baby's cheek with the nipple, the

baby will open its mouth towards the nipple, which

should then be pushed in so that the baby will 

get a mouthful of nipple and areola.  This 

position is known as latching on.  A lot of women

prefer to wear a nursing bra to allow easier access

to the breast than other normal bras.

The length of feeding time will vary.  Regardless

of the duration of feeding time, it's important 

for mothers to be comfortable. The following are

positions you can use:

1.  Upright - The sitting position where 

the back is straight.

2.  Mobile - Mobile is where the mother

carries her baby in a sling or carrier while breast

feeding.  Doing this allows the mother to breast 

feed in the work of everyday life.

3.  Lying down - This is good for night feeds

or for those who have had a caesarean section.

4.  On her back - The mother is sitting 

slightly upright, also a useful position for tandem

breast feeding.

5.  On her side - The mother and baby both

lie on their sides.

6.  Hands and knees - In this feeding position

the mother is on all fours with the baby underneath

her.  Keep in mind, this position isn't normally

recommended.

Anytime you don't feel comfortable with a feeding 

position, always stop and switch to a different

position.  Each position is different, while some

mothers prefer one position, other's may like a 

totally different position.  All you need to do is

experiment and see which position is best for you.