Different breastfeeding holds may work better than others for you and baby. From football hold to cradle hold to laid-back, these are the breastfeeding positions nursing moms will want to know about.

Making milk might come naturally, but the delivery of it from breast to belly takes a little know-how and a lot of practice. For many new moms and babies, the first attempts at breastfeeding are haphazard and hapless, at best. But proper positioning is essential in helping your newborn latch on the right way, as well as preventing nipple soreness and other breastfeeding problems.

With some trial-and-error, you’ll find the breastfeeding position that works best for you. And in no time, you’ll be a pro at breastfeeding your baby.

How to hold baby when breastfeeding

Start by placing your baby on one side, toward your breasts. Make sure your baby’s whole body is facing your chest, with his ear, shoulder and hip in a straight line.

You don’t want your newborn’s head turned to the side — it should be straight in line with the body. Use a nursing or regular pillow to bring your baby to a height that makes maneuvering him to the breast easier.

have:

• Had a C-section and want to avoid placing your baby against your abdomen
• Large breasts
• A small or premature baby
• Twins

To breastfeed baby in a football hold position, do the following:

• Position your baby at your side, facing you, with his legs tucked under your arm (yes, like a football) on the same side as the breast you’re nursing from.
• Support your baby’s head with the same hand, and use your other hand to cup your breast as you would for the cradle hold.
• Improper latching is the most common cause of breast discomfort, especially sore nipples. Latch your newborn onto your breast using the following tips:
  

  Gently tickle baby’s lip with your nipple

  This should open your baby’s mouth very wide, like a yawn. Some lactation consultants suggest aiming your nipple toward your baby’s nose and then directing it down to the upper lip to open the mouth wide. This prevents the lower lip from getting tucked in during nursing. If your baby turns away, gently stroke the cheek on the side nearest you. The rooting reflex will make your baby turn back toward your breast.

  Bring your baby toward your breast

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