GETTING STARTED
It is important to make sure that your baby latches onto the breast properly, otherwise he or she may not get enough milk during the feed and your nipples could become sore.
- Find a comfortable position
PUTTING YOUR BABY TO THE BREAST
Your Position
It is essential to find a comfortable position. If you are sitting down to feed, ensure that:
- Your back is straight and supported
- Your lap is almost flat
- Your feet are flat
- You have extra pillows to support your back and arms or to help raise your baby if needed
If you are breast feeding lying down:
- Try to lie fairly flat with a pillow under your head & your shoulder on the bed.
- Lie well over on your side. A pillow supporting your back and another between your legs can help with this.
Your Baby's Position
- Your baby should be held close to you
- Your baby should be facing the breast, with head, shoulders and body in a straight line
- Baby's nose or top lip should be opposite the nipple
- Baby should be able to reach the breast easily, without having to stretch or twist
- Remember always to move your baby towards the breast rather than your breast towards the baby
You will know when your baby is properly attached to your breast when:
- His/her mouth is wide open and he has a big mouthful of breast
- His/her chin is touching the breast
- His/her bottom lip is curled back
- His/her sucking pattern changes from short sucks to long deep sucks with pauses
Feeding should not be painful. However, you may feel some pain or discomfort when the baby first attaches to the breast. If it continues to hurt, this probably means that your baby is not attached properly.
Babies love to breastfeed but they usually come off by themselves when they have had enough.
For more information concerning latching on and positions, contact your Midwife, Health visitor or the Clinic sister.
