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What position should you avoid while breastfeeding?

Understanding Breastfeeding Positions
Breastfeeding is a natural and essential process for both mother and baby, but the position in which a mother chooses to breastfeed can significantly impact the experience. While there are several recommended positions that promote comfort and effective feeding, there are also positions that should be avoided to ensure both the mother’s and baby’s well-being.
Positions to Avoid
One of the primary positions to avoid while breastfeeding is the reclined position where the mother lies flat on her back. This position can make it difficult for the baby to latch properly, leading to ineffective feeding and potential frustration for both parties. Additionally, lying flat can increase the risk of the baby choking or having difficulty breathing, especially if the baby is not securely positioned.
Another position that is often discouraged is the cross-cradle hold if not done correctly. While this position can be beneficial for some, if the baby is not supported adequately, it can lead to strain on the mother’s arms and back. This discomfort can detract from the overall breastfeeding experience, making it less enjoyable and more stressful.
Importance of Proper Positioning
Proper positioning is crucial not only for effective feeding but also for the comfort of the mother. A good breastfeeding position should allow the baby to latch deeply onto the breast, which helps prevent sore nipples and promotes better milk flow. Positions such as the football hold or the side-lying position are often recommended as they provide good support for the baby and can be more comfortable for the mother, especially in the early days of breastfeeding.
Moreover, avoiding poor positions can help reduce the risk of complications such as mastitis or blocked ducts, which can arise from ineffective feeding techniques. Ensuring that both mother and baby are comfortable and well-supported can lead to a more successful breastfeeding journey.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding is a natural process, the positions chosen can greatly influence the experience. Avoiding positions like lying flat on the back or improperly executing the cross-cradle hold can enhance comfort and effectiveness. Mothers are encouraged to explore various positions and consult with lactation specialists to find what works best for them and their babies, ensuring a positive breastfeeding experience.

Is it safe to do side lying breastfeeding?

Feeding a baby while they lie on their side is generally not recommended for several reasons: Risk of Choking: Babies are at a higher risk of choking when they are in a side-lying position, especially if they are not yet able to swallow effectively.

What is the wrong position for breastfeeding?

Constantly bending over can lead to back and neck issues. Keep your baby’s body and head aligned. The child’s head shouldn’t be turned to one side or tilted up or down while breastfeeding. Use pillows to support your arms and the baby, which will help make you both more comfortable.

What should you not do while breastfeeding?

What foods and drinks should I limit or avoid while breastfeeding?

  • Alcohol. There’s no level of alcohol in breast milk that’s considered safe for a baby.
  • Caffeine. Avoid drinking more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 ounces) of caffeinated drinks a day.
  • Fish. Seafood can be a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Why does my baby keep latching and unlatching?

Oversupply and overactive milk ejection reflex are two reasons your baby may pop on and off your breast, while breastfeeding when there is too much milk coming at them too fast or faster than they can handle. Your baby may come off your breast choking and sputtering or need to burp more often.

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).

What is the 5 5 5 rule breastfeeding?

The Centers for Disease Control recently updated their recommendations on breast milk storage. Previously, many people followed the 5-5-5 rule: storing breast milk for five hours at room temperature, five days in the refrigerator, and five months in the freezer.

Which position is not good for breastfeeding?

Avoid leaning your breast forward into your baby’s mouth, as this can lead to poor attachment. Your baby needs to get a big mouthful of breast. Placing your baby with their nose level with your nipple will encourage them to open their mouth wide and attach to the breast 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.

What are the three rules to any position for breastfeeding?

Position your baby close to you, with their hips flexed, so that they do not have to turn their head to reach your breast. Their mouth and nose should be facing your nipple. Their body should be so close that they is touching you.

What are the golden rules for breastfeeding?

Maintain a minimum of 2 to 3 feeds per day
Taking into account the principle of lactation (the more the breast is solicited, the more milk the body produces), it is advisable to continue to give your baby at least 2 to 3 feedings per day.

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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