Breastfeeding while lying down
If you find yourself feeling tired then breastfeeding while lying down is a great technique to master. It not only will help your baby drift off to sleep, but it places you in a safe place to get a little extra rest as well.
Make yourself comfortable by lying on your side with a pillow under your lower back. It may be helpful to try out this position when you have someone to help move the pillows until you find the comfortable spots. Additional pillows under and behind your head and under the knee of your upper leg will increase your comfort. Keep in mind that you want to be in as good a place as possible so you don’t feel the need to stretch or shift while breastfeeding.
Place your baby on their side and facing toward you with their mouth at your nipple. Your forearm and elbow should be lined up to support your babies back, shoulders, and neck. You may also find that using a rolled towel will help in positioning your baby while they breastfeed.
Should you need to switch breasts, bring your baby onto your chest and gently roll over to the other side repositioning them as you move. If large movements are not possible then you can roll slightly toward your baby and bring your other breast to their mouth.
Some babies take to breastfeeding lying down right away, others need a little practice. Regardless it is a good alternative for when you and your baby have had a long day and need a little extra comfort or a nap.
