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How to breastfeed in a reclined position?

Understanding the Reclined Breastfeeding Position
Breastfeeding can often feel like a daunting task for new mothers, especially when trying to find the most comfortable and effective position. One increasingly popular method is the reclined breastfeeding position, also known as laid-back breastfeeding or biological nursing. This approach not only promotes comfort for the mother but also encourages natural feeding reflexes in both mother and baby.
Getting Comfortable
To begin, find a comfortable semi-reclined position. This can be on a cozy sofa, a supportive recliner, or even in bed. The key is to ensure that your back is supported, and you have enough pillows to prop up your head, shoulders, and arms. This setup allows you to relax while providing a stable environment for your baby.
Once you’re settled, it’s advisable to remove your shirt or nursing bra to facilitate skin-to-skin contact, which is beneficial for both bonding and breastfeeding.
Positioning Your Baby
With your body reclined at about a 45-degree angle, gently lay your baby on their stomach across your chest. Their head should be positioned near your breast, allowing them to instinctively root and latch on. This position not only supports the baby’s natural feeding instincts but also allows them to feel secure and close to you.
Make sure your baby is fully supported on your body, rather than lying flat. This means they should be able to hug your breast with their arms, which can help them latch more effectively.
Benefits of the Reclined Position
Research has shown that breastfeeding in a reclined position can stimulate natural feeding reflexes, making it easier for babies to latch on and feed. Additionally, this position can be particularly helpful for mothers who may be experiencing difficulties with traditional breastfeeding methods. The laid-back approach allows for a more relaxed atmosphere, which can reduce stress for both mother and child.
Tips for Success
– Use Pillows: Surround yourself with pillows to ensure maximum comfort and support. This can help alleviate any strain on your back or neck.
– Stay Relaxed: Take deep breaths and allow yourself to relax into the position. The more comfortable you are, the easier it will be for your baby to latch and feed.
– Experiment: Don’t hesitate to adjust your position or the angle at which you’re reclining until you find what feels best for both you and your baby.
In conclusion, the reclined breastfeeding position offers a nurturing and effective way to feed your baby while promoting comfort and bonding. By creating a supportive environment and allowing your baby to latch naturally, you can make the breastfeeding experience more enjoyable for both of you.

How do you breastfeed at incline?

Lie on your back against pillows to give yourself a slightly inclined position, hold your baby against your chest and relax!

How do you latch in reclined position?

Steps for a Laid-Back Position
COmfortably recline back to a 45-degree angle on the couch, bed, or chair with pillows behind you. Lay your baby over your body, tummy to tummy, so that the baby is looking down onto the breast. Cradle your baby’s head in the crook of your elbow on the side you are nursing on.

Do I always have to hold my breasts while breastfeeding?

First of all, because it is not needed. You also “lose” a useful hand by trying to keep your breast away from the baby’s nose. Furthermore, holding the breast during the feed could unintentionally cause the baby to latch on poorly (more on how to achieve a good latch here).

Is a recliner good for breastfeeding?

Many children also enjoy being soothed during or after and the rocking abilities of a glider, recliner or old school rocking chair provides just that. The movement of the chair can both inspire a positive nursing session and can help calm an infant before or after as well.

How to get baby to latch deeper?

With your baby’s head tilted back and chin up, lift him or her to touch your nipple. The nipple should rest just above the baby’s upper lip. Wait for your baby to open very wide, then “scoop” the breast by placing the lower jaw on first. Now tip your baby’s head forward and place the upper jaw well behind your nipple.

How to breastfeed in a recliner?

“Laid-back” baby-led natural position
Lie back on a sofa, bed, or reclining chair so that your body is at a comfortable 45-degree angle, but not flat. This may be more comfortable than sitting up and leaning over a breastfeeding pillow. Here are some tips: Place your baby on their tummy on your chest.

What is the propped up position for breastfeeding?

In this position, you lean back — propped up on pillows, the side of a couch, or a recliner. Then, you place your baby directly on your chest, belly down. Gravity keeps your baby in place for you. You can either let your baby crawl up to the breast themselves and try to latch or gently help them find the breast.

How do I put my baby in a reclining position while feeding?

Reclining position
Support yourself with pillows and lean far enough back for your baby to be fully supported on your reclined body – not completely flat. Lay your baby prone on your chest. To engage in skin-to-skin contact, lay your naked baby on your bare chest and enjoy bonding with your little one.

Do I need to burp baby after side lying breastfeeding?

There are no rules on when to burp your baby. Some babies need to be burped during their feed while others after. And some may find it easier than others.

Can I pump in a reclined position?

When you pump in a reclined position, it is important to remember that you still should not slouch. Instead, try to keep your back straight and support it with a couple of pillows or cushions. You also should not recline too much or else you can cause your milk supply to flow back into the pump.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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