The side-lying breastfeeding position is when you lie on your side and place your baby alongside you on their side. In this position, you face each other with your baby’s head at the level of your breast. Hence, it is also known as the reclining or lying down position. Experts consider this position comfortable and safe for babies and mothers. You can try this technique when you find positioning or latching the baby difficult in other positions. Regardless of the feeding position you choose, remember to place the baby on their back in the crib for sleeping. For any breastfeeding-related issues, always consult a lactation professional besides doing research. Read on as we offer insight into the benefits of side-lying breastfeeding and steps to ensure smooth breastfeeding for you and your baby in this position.
When Is The Side-lying Breastfeeding Position A Good Choice?
Side-lying breastfeeding is the right choice when you prefer to breastfeed lying down.Breastfeeding in the side-lying position can be more convenient in the following situations (1).
1. At the hospital
Side-lying and laid back breastfeeding positions can be comfortable feeding positions when you have just delivered and are at the hospital. The position provides rest to the mother while also letting the baby nurse. Always remember to keep the side-rails up when your baby is on the bed.
2. After a cesarean section
Side-lying position and football hold positions are good options for mothers who underwent C-section delivery. Newborns cannot put pressure on the incision site or stomach while feeding on the lying position.
3. Forceful letdown or oversupply
You may choose a side-lying position if you have forceful letdown or oversupply of breastmilk. Babies can manage the flow of milk better in the side-lying position. The flow of milk may also be reduced since the effect of gravity is less in side-lying than sitting position. Babies may also be able to spit up extra milk without aspiration or choking.
4. No need to sit up in the middle of the night
Side-lying breastfeeding can be comfortable during nighttime. Sitting up several times in the night can be tiring for moms. Many mothers prefer to co-sleep safely with babies, especially after night time nursings. However, bed-sharing may not be safe for babies. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends placing your baby back in their crib or bassinet after nursing to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) due to co-sleeping.
5. Large breasts
Some mothers may find it difficult to latch and breastfeed babies in many positions due to large breasts. A side-lying position can be a more effortless and comfortable option for them. You may seek help from a lactation consultant to learn proper latching and feeding positions during the initial days.
6. When sitting up is a strain
Breastfeeding the baby while sitting can be a strain for many mothers, particularly when feeding newborns who need frequent feedings. Mothers are also likely to be tired after childbirth, making it cumbersome to sit for too long. In such cases, side-lying nursing is the best breastfeeding position.
7. During illness
The side-lying position can be relaxing for mothers who are tired or sick. You may lie down and rest while nursing in this position. Tiredness and illness may cause moms to fall asleep after nursing. Always ensure to keep the baby back in the crib after nursing.
8. The baby is sleepy
Side-lying or football hold position may help you feed a sleepy baby for a longer time. It may help the baby rest and feed well. Place the baby in the crib once the baby is done with the feeding.
Can You Breastfeed A Newborn Lying On Your Side?
Yes, you can breastfeed a baby in a side-lying position right from the first feed. You may use a pillow or blanket to support your newborn while breastfeeding in a side-lying position. Place the pillow or blanket such that it makes it easier for the baby to access the breast. You can roll the towel and place it behind the baby’s back, so their tummy faces you, and they do not turn head to latch. Remain awake while breastfeeding your newborn since bed-sharing may increase the risk of SIDS (2). Keep the baby back in the crib after the feeding session. While you can feed in a side-lying position, a lying back position is usually preferred to have maximum skin-to-skin contact with the baby right after birth.
How To Breastfeed In The Side-lying Position?
The following steps may help you ensure comfort and proper latch during the side-lying breastfeeding position (3).
Does A Side-lying Breastfeeding Position Improve The Baby’s Latch?
The side-lying breastfeeding position may help the baby have a better latch in some cases. For instance, mothers with larger breasts may feel that the baby latches better when fed in a side-lying position. You may try a side-lying nursing position if your baby does not latch well or feeds inadequately in other positions. Although the side-lying position may improve the baby’s latch, you can break the latch easily if the baby bites or hurts your nipple. It may take multiple attempts and a longer time for mother and baby to find a comfortable feeding position that facilitates a good latch. Do not worry if the initial attempts are unsuccessful. Also, babies learn gradually to latch well. It is advisable to seek help from a caregiver or family member during the initial days of motherhood. They can place the baby in the crib in case you fall asleep. Although a side-lying breastfeeding position can be comfortable, you may also try other positions. You may also seek help from a nurse or a board-certified lactation consultant to know more about suitable breastfeeding positions for you and your baby.
