7 Breastfeeding Positions Every Mom Should Know

Breastfeeding may be natural, but that doesn’t mean it always feels easy, especially in the early days. Whether you’re recovering from birth, figuring out how to latch, or simply trying to get comfortable at 2 a.m., the position you choose can make a big difference.

This guide walks you through 7 tried-and-true breastfeeding positions that work for real-life situations—like feeding twins, soothing reflux, or nursing after a C-section. With the right hold, you’ll help your baby latch more easily and make feeding less stressful for both of you.

Different Breastfeeding Positions Explained

Let’s walk through seven of the most helpful breastfeeding positions—what they are, when to use them, and why they might make feeding a little easier for both of you. Whether you’re healing from birth, nursing on the go, or feeding twins, there’s something here for every stage and situation.

1. Cradle Hold — The Classic Go-To

This is probably the position you picture when you think of breastfeeding. You’re sitting upright with your baby resting across your lap, their head tucked into the crook of your arm on the same side you’re nursing from. Their body should be belly-to-belly with yours, and their nose lined up with your nipple.

The cradle hold is simple once feeding is going smoothly—but if you’ve had a C-section, it can put pressure on your incision. In that case, you might want to hold off on this one and try something gentler on your belly. Once latch is solid, though, this is a great everyday option that’s easy to use pretty much anywhere.

2. Cross-Cradle Hold — Great for Newborn Latching

This one looks like the cradle hold, but your arms switch roles. You use the opposite hand (so, your left hand if baby’s feeding on your right side) to support their head and neck. That gives you more control while helping your baby latch, especially in the early days when they’re still learning.

It’s especially helpful for newborns, premature babies, or little ones who tend to get sleepy while feeding.

Pro tip: use a firm pillow across your lap to bring baby up to nipple height and save your shoulders some strain.

3. Football (Clutch) Hold — Ideal for C-Sections or Small Babies

In this position, your baby is tucked under your arm on the same side you’re feeding from—just like you’d hold a football. Their body curves around your side with feet pointing toward your back. You support their shoulders and neck with your hand.

Because baby isn’t lying on your stomach, this is one of the most comfortable holds if you’re recovering from a C-section. It also works well if you have larger breasts or if you’re feeding twins one at a time. Bonus: it drains milk from a different angle, which can help with clogged ducts or gas.

4. Side-Lying Position — Perfect for Night Feeds

The side lying breastfeeding position is a lifesaver for tired nights. You lie on your side with your baby snuggled up next to you, tummy-to-tummy, and bring them in so their mouth meets your nipple at chest level.

Breastfeeding in side lying position is gentle on your body—especially helpful if you’re healing from a tear, stitches, or abdominal birth. It’s also perfect for those middle-of-the-night feeds when you just can’t sit up anymore.

Just be sure to stay awake while feeding and move baby to a safe sleep space when you’re done, following safe sleep guidelines.

5. Laid-Back or Biological Nurturing — Follow Your Baby’s Lead

With this relaxed approach, you lean back at a 30–45° angle with cushions or pillows under your back and lay your baby tummy-down on your chest. Let them use their natural instincts to scoot toward the breast and latch on by themselves.

This laid-back breastfeeding position can improve latch depth and reduce discomfort—especially if you’re dealing with sore nipples or a strong let-down. It’s also a great option if you’re overproducing milk or just want a break from more structured positions.

6. Upright or Koala Hold — For Reflux or Older Babies

In this hold, your baby sits upright on your lap or straddling your hip, facing you with their chest against your chest. Their spine stays straight, like a little koala hanging on.

Because your baby stays vertical, it can help reduce spit-up or manage reflux. It’s easiest once they have some head control and works great for bigger babies. This one’s also super convenient when you’re out and about—no pillows or extra setup needed.

7. Double Rugby Ball Hold — Nurse Twin at Once

Feeding twins? This is the go-to tandem position. You hold both babies in a football hold—one under each arm, their heads at each breast, and their legs tucked around your sides. You’ll want solid pillow support to keep everyone in place and your hands free.

This setup keeps babies off your belly (great after a C-section), lets you monitor both latches, and helps you feed more efficiently. It might take a little practice, but once you’ve got it down, it can seriously simplify twin feeds.

Signs of a Good Latch and Suckling

When your baby is latched well, nursing feels comfortable (not toe-curling), and your baby gets the milk they need without frustration. Here are several signs that a latch is good:

• It doesn’t hurt.A strong tug at the start is normal, but if you’re wincing through the whole feed, something’s off. It shouldn’t feel sharp or pinching—if it does, gently unlatch and try again.
• Your baby is tucked in close.Their whole body should be facing you, tummy-to-tummy, with their neck straight and supported—not twisted.
• Their mouth is wide open with lips flanged out.Think fish lips—both top and bottom lips turned outward to create a good seal.
• Chin in, nose clear.Baby’s chin should press into your breast while their nose stays just above it, free for breathing.
• You see more areola above their top lip.A deep, asymmetrical latch (with more of the darker area visible on top) helps baby use their tongue to draw milk more effectively.
• You hear soft swallowing.Look for a steady rhythm of jaw movements and little gulps—no loud clicking or smacking sounds.
• Cheeks look full, not sucked in.Dimpling or popping on and off the breast can mean poor suction or shallow latch.
• They finish relaxed.Open hands, sleepy eyes, and a “milk-drunk” face are all great signs. And once your milk is in, look for around six wet diapers a day to know they’re getting enough.

If something feels off—pain, shallow latch, or clicking sounds—slide a clean finger into the corner of baby’s mouth to break the suction gently, and reposition. It may take a few tries, and that’s totally normal.

Pro Tips for Pain-Free Breastfeeding

Even with a perfect latch, breastfeeding can still get uncomfortable if your body isn’t supported or if feeds go too long without a break. These simple tips can help you stay ahead of pain and enjoy feeds more:

Set yourself up before baby latches

Use pillows, a footstool, or rolled blankets to bring baby up to your breast, not the other way around. Good posture = less back and neck strain.

Switch up positions

Rotating holds (like switching from cradle to football) not only gives your muscles a break, it helps empty different milk ducts and can prevent blocked ones.

Unlatch with care

Never pull baby off your breast—slide your pinky gently into the side of their mouth to break the suction before removing them.

Feed before they’re frantically hungry

Nursing every 2–3 hours keeps your breasts from getting too full, which makes it easier for baby to latch and feed comfortably.

Be gentle to your nipples

After a feed, express a little breast milk and let it air-dry on your skin—it’s naturally soothing. Skip soap on nipples, as it can dry out and irritate.

Use warm and cool therapy

A warm compress before nursing can soften tissue and get milk flowing. A cool gel pad afterward can calm inflammation or tenderness.

Stay nourished and hydrated

Eating well, drinking plenty of fluids, and sneaking in rest where you can will support both your recovery and your milk supply.

Why a warm wearable pump helps

If pumping is part of your routine—whether you’re building a freezer stash, heading back to work, or easing engorgement—a wearable breast pump that adds gentle heat can make the process far more comfortable. It warms breast tissue to about body-temperature, which can improve let-down, prevent clogged ducts, and keep milk flowing smoothly during sessions.

Below are two solid options from eufy that pair hospital-grade suction with built-in warmth and true hands-free design:

The eufy Breast Pump S1 Pro is the first wearable pump with seven HeatFlow™ temperature settings, letting you fine-tune warmth between 95 °F and 105 °F for comfort and flow. A hospital-grade motor delivers up to 300 mmHg suction with 14 adjustable modes, yet stays ultra-quiet (46 dB) for discreet pumping.

The double-seal shield minimizes leaks, while a portable charging case powers about five days of sessions—ideal for travel or long shifts. App integration via OptiRhythm lets you customize rhythm and track output in real time. BPA-free parts and a 5 oz collection cup round out a pump built for efficiency and comfort.

Sharing the same HeatFlow™ core, the eufy Breast Pump S1 offers seven warmth levels and hospital-grade suction up to 300 mmHg, but without the charging case. You get seven intensity options and three speed settings, plus OptiRhythm app control for one-tap adjustments.

The ergonomic 105° soft silicon flange fits nipples 17–24 mm and channels milk into a 5 oz container—roomy enough for most sessions without extra bulk.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, the “best” breastfeeding positions are the ones that work for you and your baby. What feels right today might change next week, and that’s totally normal. Try a few, adjust as you go, and don’t stress if it takes some trial and error. You’re learning together. And if you’re still unsure or in pain, a quick chat with a lactation consultant can go a long way.

FAQ

What position should you avoid while breastfeeding?

When breastfeeding, it’s important to avoid wrong breastfeeding positions for newborns, such as those where you’re hunched over or twisting your baby’s neck. Holding your baby too far from your body can also strain your back and neck, while making it harder for your baby to latch properly and swallow comfortably. These positions can lead to discomfort for both you and your baby, so it’s best to choose positions that promote a natural, relaxed posture for both of you.

What is the best position for breastfeeding a newborn?

The cross-cradle hold is often recommended for newborns. In this position, you support your baby's head with the opposite arm of the breast you're using, allowing you to guide their mouth to the nipple. This hold provides good control and is especially helpful for newborns who are still developing their latch.

Which breastfeeding position works best after a C-section?

After a C-section, the football (clutch) hold and side-lying position are ideal. The football hold keeps your baby under your arm, avoiding pressure on your incision, while the side-lying position allows you to rest comfortably on your side, minimizing abdominal strain. Both positions support effective feeding without compromising your recovery.

What is the rule of 3 breastfeeding?

The “Rule of 3” in breastfeeding refers to three key guidelines:

1. Feed your baby at least every 3 hours.
2. Allow your baby to nurse for at least 3 minutes on each breast to ensure they receive both foremilk and hindmilk.
3. Expect your baby to be content for about 3 hours between feedings.

These guidelines help establish a feeding routine and ensure your baby is getting adequate nutrition.