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A Guide to Side Lying Breastfeeding Position

July 25, 2023

A mother breastfeeding her baby on her side on a white bed.

Breastfeeding is a beautiful bonding experience, and mastering the various positions can enhance the journey for both mother and child. Side lying breastfeeding position is a popular technique where the mother lies on her side, facing her baby, while nursing. In this position, the baby lies alongside the mother, tummy-to-tummy, facilitating easy access to the breast. Pillows or rolled-up blankets can provide additional support for optimal alignment and comfort. Side lying aids nighttime feeding, letting mothers rest while nursing, and creating a soothing environment for babies.

Embracing the side lying position offers an array of benefits for both mother and baby. Side-lying reduces back strain and fatigue, which is ideal for postpartum recovery and relieving soreness. Additionally, side lying breastfeeding enables mothers to rest, promoting better sleep and overall well-being. For babies, the position allows for a more natural latch, leading to a more comfortable feeding experience. The skin-to-skin contact during side lying can enhance bonding and foster a sense of security for the baby. Furthermore, the relaxed environment may aid in digestion, reducing issues like colic and reflux.

Watch for our guide to mastering side-lying breastfeeding and enjoying its wonderful benefits for you and your baby.

Breast feeding mama with two cute kids at home.

How to Get Into the Side Lying Breastfeeding Position

In this section, we will explore the simple yet effective steps to smoothly transition and achieve a comfortable side-lying position.

Finding a Comfortable and Supportive Surface

Before you start nursing in the side-lying position, finding a comfortable and supportive surface is essential. An ideal spot where you and your baby lie side by side, at the same level, breast reachable. Choose a firm surface for side-lying, preventing rolling and ensuring the baby’s safety and comfort. A mattress that is too soft might pose suffocation hazards.

Besides a firm mattress, the area should be free from pillows, blankets, or plush toys that might interfere with your baby’s breathing. Make sure there are no gaps between the mattress and the headboard or the wall where the baby could potentially get stuck. Also, ensure that the space is sufficiently insulated from possible disturbances. Use a screen or barrier for privacy and calm in a shared space during breastfeeding. Remember, breastfeeding is not just about nourishment but also a time for mother-child bonding.

Lastly, the surface should allow for easy access. This means that you can easily reach your baby and adjust your positions without straining. Easy access in and out of bed or couch is crucial, especially post-C-section or postpartum. Comfort is key for successful side-lying; relaxation stimulates milk flow, making breastfeeding enjoyable.

Using Pillows or Cushions for Added Support

Pillows and cushions can be valuable tools in achieving a comfortable and effective side-lying breastfeeding position. They provide support to your body, helping you maintain the right posture and reduce unnecessary strain. The appropriate use of pillows can make a huge difference, not only in your comfort but also in ensuring effective latching and successful breastfeeding.

One of the most important ways to use a pillow is to support your head. A pillow under your head can help align your spine, reducing neck or shoulder strain. Another pillow tucked between your knees can help keep your hips and spine aligned. This can be particularly beneficial if you have any back or hip discomfort.

Cushions or pillows can also be used to support your baby. A flat pillow lifts the baby to breast level, reducing bending or hunching during breastfeeding. Relaxed posture aids milk flow, preventing blocked ducts and mastitis by ensuring proper breast drainage.

Advantages of Side Lying Breastfeeding

Discover the numerous benefits of side-lying breastfeeding for both mothers and infants as we delve into this insightful section. Side-lying breastfeeding: comfort, bonding, reduced strain—appealing to many nursing mothers for its advantages.

Mother and baby

Allows the Mother to Rest and Relax While Nursing

One of the most significant advantages of the side-lying breastfeeding position is the opportunity it affords the mother to rest and relax while nursing. Side-lying breastfeeding lets the mother lie down, unlike other positions requiring sitting or holding. This can be particularly beneficial during nighttime feedings or for those early morning sessions when the mother may still be fatigued.

Moreover, for mothers recovering from difficult labor or a cesarean section, the side-lying position can offer an invaluable respite. By laying on their side, these mothers can avoid putting pressure on their abdominal area, enabling them to nurse without discomfort or strain. Side-lying enables easier night feeding without fully waking or sitting up the mother. This way, both the mother and the baby can return to sleep more quickly and easily after the feeding.

Helps Prevent Back and Shoulder Pain

Back and shoulder pain can be a common issue for many breastfeeding mothers, particularly if they spend long periods sitting up while nursing. In the side-lying position, the weight of the baby is distributed more evenly, not concentrated on the mother’s arm or back. This arrangement can help to prevent the discomfort and strain that often results from holding a baby for an extended period.

Lying down supports the mother’s body, reducing muscle strain while holding or supporting the baby. This position also allows for better spinal alignment, decreasing the risk of back pain. A pillow between the knees can ensure the hips are level, which can further protect the lower back. Side-lying prevents strain; no need for shoulder raising or hunching to bring the baby to the breast.

Provides a Bonding Experience for Mother and Baby

Breastfeeding, in general, provides an excellent opportunity for bonding between mother and baby, but the side-lying position can enhance this experience. When mother and baby are lying face-to-face, it allows for plenty of skin-to-skin contact, which has been shown to have numerous benefits. This contact can help to regulate the baby’s heartbeat, temperature, and breathing. Encourages oxytocin release, promoting milk let-down and strengthening the emotional bond between mother and baby.

Additionally, this position promotes eye contact, allowing the mother to observe her baby’s cues more closely. She can easily see her baby’s expressions, notice any changes in their feeding pattern, and respond quickly to their needs. This sensitive, responsive care can contribute to the baby’s sense of security and attachment.

The closeness that the side-lying position fosters can also make breastfeeding a more calming and soothing experience for both mother and baby. It is a peaceful, intimate setting that allows both to relax and enjoy this unique time of bonding. The mother’s gentle breathing lulls the baby to sleep after a nighttime feed, promoting a restful transition for both.

Overcoming Challenges

The segment covers side-lying challenges, and practical tips, ensuring a rewarding feeding experience for mother and baby.

Mother is breastfeeding her baby girl at home

Finding the Right Angle for Latch

The latch is one of the most critical aspects of successful breastfeeding. Poor latch causes inefficient feeding, nipple pain, and possible milk supply decrease over time. A flat pillow raises the baby to breast level, easing strain during breastfeeding. However, overcoming this challenge is certainly possible with a bit of patience and practice.

Start by positioning your baby so that their nose is opposite your nipple. This way, when your baby opens wide, it will take in a large portion of the breast tissue and not just the nipple. Once the baby latches on, their chin should press into your breast, and their nose should be free for easy breathing. Adjust positions to align baby with breast, moving closer or sliding yourself backward or forward. Using pillows or rolled-up blankets to support your or your baby’s position can also be helpful.

If the latch still isn’t right, don’t be discouraged. Gently break the suction by inserting your little finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth, then try again. Consult lactation experts or support groups for tips. Each feeding is a chance to improve latch.

Dealing with Potential Discomfort

Side-lying offers comfort, but discomfort possible due to latch, support, or medical issues like mastitis, thrush. Overcoming this discomfort often involves identifying the root cause and addressing it accordingly.

As mentioned, an incorrect latch can cause nipple pain or discomfort. Ensuring a proper latch can alleviate this problem. In case of sore or cracked nipples due to previous incorrect latches, consider applying breast milk or a nipple cream to aid healing.

Inadequate body support can lead to neck, back, or shoulder pain. Using pillows or cushions to provide support to your back, neck, and legs can help maintain a comfortable posture and reduce strain. Additionally, alternating between the side-lying position and other breastfeeding positions can provide relief from holding the same posture for extended periods.

Medical conditions such as mastitis (breast tissue inflammation) or thrush (a fungal infection) can cause significant discomfort. If you suspect you have one of these conditions, it’s essential to seek medical advice promptly. Appropriate treatment can help clear the condition and alleviate associated pain.

Baby sleeping

Ensuring a Safe Sleeping Environment for the Baby

When breastfeeding in the side-lying position, especially during night-time, ensuring a safe sleeping environment for the baby is paramount. There are several guidelines that can help you ensure this.

Place baby on back after feeding for safe sleep, reducing SIDS risk—always prioritize this position. Ensure baby’s sleep space is clear, free from suffocation risks like pillows, toys, or heavy blankets.

Keep your baby close to you in bed but not too close to the edge of the bed, where they could potentially roll off. Make sure there are no gaps between the bed and the wall or headboard that the baby could roll into.

It’s also important to consider other safety aspects of the bed-sharing environment. Adults or other children in the bed should be aware of the baby’s presence. Avoid bed-sharing if heavy sleeper, smoker, or influenced by alcohol, drugs, or drowsy medications.

It’s always a good idea to discuss your sleeping arrangements with a healthcare professional. They can provide additional guidance to help you ensure a safe environment for your baby. Remember, while the side-lying position can make nighttime feedings easier, the safety of your baby is always the top priority.

Tips for Successful Side Lying Breastfeeding

Unlock the secrets to successful side-lying breastfeeding with these invaluable tips and techniques. Section guides mothers to safe, comfortable side-lying position for a fulfilling breastfeeding journey.

Experimenting with Different Positions and Angles

Experiment with positions for successful side-lying breastfeeding—find what works best for you and your baby. Basic side-lying involves mother and baby side by side, with potential variations within this setup.

For instance, you could try laying your baby more diagonally across your chest instead of parallel. Lifting the upper leg, bending at the , cradles baby—mothers find it helpful during side-lying. Others prefer to have their lower arm above their baby’s head and their upper arm around them, creating a protective space.

Using Breastfeeding Pillows or Rolled-Up Blankets for Support

Breastfeeding pillows and rolled-up blankets can be incredibly useful when breastfeeding in the side-lying position. They can provide additional support and comfort, making the breastfeeding experience more enjoyable for both you and your baby.

A supportive pillow behind your back can help maintain your balance and prevent you from rolling onto your back or towards the baby. It can also help relieve back or hip strain. Pillows between your knees can align your hips and back, preventing any potential discomfort.

For the baby, a rolled-up blanket or a small flat pillow can provide the necessary lift for them to reach your breast without straining. It can also help them maintain their position during feeding. A pillow or rolled-up towel behind your baby can prevent them from rolling onto their back or away from you. However, always ensure these do not pose a suffocation risk to your baby.

Shot of an attractive young woman sitting and talking to her psychologist during a consultation

Seeking Guidance from a Lactation Consultant if Needed

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may encounter difficulties with the side-lying breastfeeding position. If this is the case, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A lactation consultant can provide valuable guidance and practical tips tailored to your specific situation. They can observe a feed, assess your baby’s latch, suggest adjustments to your position, and answer any questions you may have.

Lactation consultants address various breastfeeding issues, from positioning to low milk supply and latching problems. They can also provide emotional support and reassurance, which can be just as important as practical advice during the early days of breastfeeding.

Conclusion

Side-lying breastfeeding offers rest, pain prevention, and deeper bonding, making it highly beneficial for mothers. If you haven’t yet, I encourage you to try the side-lying position. It may just enhance your breastfeeding experience, making those special moments of nourishment even more comfortable and enjoyable. Remember, as you navigate this unique journey, it’s essential to prioritize your comfort and well-being. After all, a relaxed and comfortable mother contributes to a successful breastfeeding experience. Don’t hesitate to experiment, adjust, and ask for help as needed – you’re doing an amazing job.

Related Articles:

  1. Efficient Breastfeeding and Pumping Schedule Tips
  2. Breast Milk Thawing: Best Practices and Tips
  3. Breastfeeding and Smoking: What You Should Know

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