Being a mum is exciting and wonderful – the first time holding your baby, planning for the future ahead and watching their first steps form the greatest bonds and some of our very best memories.
And just like those first steps and treasured memories, breastfeeding helps deepen your bond with your little munchkin – and the science behind it is simply amazing. Oxytocin, the ‘love hormone’, is released to both mother and baby when breastfeeding, and a bit of skin-to-skin magic strengthens the bond further.
While breastfeeding can be a special time of connection and calm, many mums understandably find it tricky to get the technique just right. This really is quite normal and nothing to be ashamed of – every little one is different, and while one technique may work for your friends, it might not be the same for you.
Don’t worry; we’re here to ease your mind. We’ve put together a range of techniques to try, plus breastfeeding essentials and helpful products to make feeding your little munchkin easier. Remember: the main challenge is to find comfort and ensure the baby feeds well – and the best way to do this is via correct positioning and attachment.
Get supplies, get comfy, get relaxed (for you, Mum!)
Breastfeeding isn’t just about your little one – it’s important to look after yourself too! Start by getting your snacks and drinks within easy reach, make sure your body is supported, and have a little entertainment lined up to keep you relaxed.
Our top prep ideas to make feeding easier:
- Snacks and drinks: Choose whatever makes you feel comfortable – fruit, crisps, or a little treat. And don’t forget a glass of water to keep your energy up!
- Entertainment: Feeling social? Call a friend or catch up online. Craving some alone time? Get cosy with your favourite books, music, or podcasts – maybe even our own StrollerCoaster! And don’t forget, these moments are perfect for bonding with your baby too: talking, singing, or just cuddling can be magical.
For more ideas to make feeding easier and more enjoyable, take a look at our 10 Tips for Successful Breastfeeding – full of handy advice on staying comfy, relaxed, and prepared for every feed.
The best nursing positions for breastfeeding
Every tiny tot is different, so there isn’t a single ‘best’ breastfeeding position – just plenty of different breastfeeding positions to explore and see what feels right.
The laid-back position (also known as biological nursing)
This is one of the easiest newborn breastfeeding positions.
Lie down, with your back propped up with cushions, while your baby lies tummy-to-tummy with you. This is a great position for relaxing and bonding – it can also help with a stronger milk flow.
This nursing position is known for allowing the baby to easily self-attach and can be great for newborns. If you’ve had a C-section, your baby can lie across you and away from the incision.
The cradle hold
As the name suggests, this method involves holding your baby like a cradle; hold the baby using the arm opposite the feeding breast, using your open hand to support the back of the baby’s head.
This method is considered one of the best newborn feeding positions, letting you gently guide your baby’s head while they’re still gaining strength. It’s also helpful if they’re having trouble latching.
The football hold
This method is popular as it leaves a hand free. The baby’s body is tucked under your arm (like a football or clutch bag), with their legs pointing back and the palm of your hand (of the same arm) supporting their head and neck.
This method is fantastic if you’re recovering from a C-section, as it puts literally no pressure on the scar area. It can also work well for breastfeeding twins at the same time – or if you have larger breasts.
The side-lying position
The side-lying position is fantastic for night feeds on the bed, where you can lie side by side, tummy-to-tummy with your baby. The key here is to support the baby’s ear, shoulder and hip in a straight line so their head isn’t turned.
Side lying is great for mums who have suffered from a difficult delivery, but not so great if your baby struggles to latch on, as it can be trickier for them to find the nipple.
Straddle hold
The baby actually sits upright in this position (like a baby koala!), straddling the thigh, facing the breast, while mum is sitting upright.
This position works well for babies dealing with reflux, tongue tie, ear infections, low muscle tone, hip dysplasia, or when mum has an oversupply of milk.
How to master the latch
Latching onto the nipple is an achievement in itself. Some babies struggle, others don’t even know there’s a struggle to be had. For those who are, it’s often best to try a mother-led approach. Let’s get straight into it…
The mother-led approach (best if your baby is struggling to latch on)
- Hold the baby close, with their nose level with your nipple
- Let the baby’s head tip back and brush against the nipple, encouraging them to open their mouth
- Quickly bring the baby’s mouth to your breast, aiming your nipple towards the roof of their mouth
Give your baby’s head space to move; if it’s held too tightly, they might arch or push away, which can make latching harder.
The baby-led approach
- Relax and lie back
- Lay baby tummy-down on top of you, ensuring easy access to the nipple
- Allow the baby to find the breast and attach on their own
If you’re looking for confidence that milk is flowing, try our Flow Nipple Shield+ – the world’s very first patented nipple shield with a built-in channel that allows mums to see their breast milk flowing.
Things to avoid when latching on
- No matter how tempting, don’t check your baby’s lips after latching, as this can pull the breast out of their mouth
- Don’t cover or restrain your baby’s hands
- Always stay awake while feeding – your baby’s safety comes first, so get comfortable and rest when they’re safely settled elsewhere
- Avoid some common wrong breastfeeding positions for newborns – for example, the baby’s head turned away from the breast, body not tummy-to-tummy, or chin not touching. These can cause shallow latching and discomfort
How to know you’ve found the right position
How can you tell the latch is good? The goal is for your baby to have the entire areola in their mouth, which helps them feed comfortably.
Here are the signs of a great latch:
- Your baby’s mouth is covering the nipple (if some of the areola is showing, it should be more visible above their top lip)
- Their chin is pressed into your breast
- The nose should be clear to allow easy breathing
- Their cheeks are full and rounded
- The baby starts with quicker sucks, then changes to long, deep sucks with pauses
- You should be able to hear them swallowing
- You should not hear smacking or clicking sounds
Sounds good? Well done, Mum – you’re nailing it!
Signs your baby isn’t latching properly, or is in the wrong breastfeeding position
Sometimes it’s obvious when it’s wrong, sometimes it isn’t. Here’s how to know when something is ‘off’.
- Your nipple is persistently sore or in pain
- Your baby’s cheeks look like they’re dimpling or being sucked in while feeding
- You notice clicking or smacking sounds as they feed
- Your baby keeps moving on and off the breast repeatedly
For a little extra guidance, check out our article Signs Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk to help you feel confident at every feed.
Ultimately, you need to do what works for you…
Breastfeeding really does come down to what feels most comfortable for you and your little one. Keep experimenting with breastfeeding techniques and positions until feeds feel comfortable and your baby is transferring milk well. Like any new skill, it takes a bit of practice, patience, and tuning in to your baby – watch their behaviour, notice their cues, and let them guide you.
Over time, you might discover a different position works better, or that a small change makes all the difference. Every mum has moments of doubt, and that’s completely normal. Some days you’ll feel confident, and other days it might feel like guesswork. Remember, there’s no one “right” way – just what works for you and your baby.
Be gentle with yourself, celebrate the small wins, and trust that with time and practice, feeding will become a more relaxed, enjoyable experience. Whether you try new positions, experiment with techniques, or use our Flow Nipple Shield+, you’re doing an amazing job.
Looking for some more motherly advice? Listen to our StrollerCoaster parenting podcast for fun and friendly advice, and explore our blog for more tips to make parenting a little easier.
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