How to breastfeed while lying down
Breastfeeding often means being in the same position for extended
periods, several times a day and night. Fortunately, some breastfeeding
positions allow the mother to lie down and feed her baby effectively. These
recumbent positions are not only potentially more comfortable for the mother,
but may also offer certain advantages in other situations.
The key to breastfeeding while lying down is finding a comfortable and
safe position for you and your baby. Here are two common positions you can use
to breastfeed while lying down:
Laid-back breastfeeding. In this position,
the mother leans back on the couch or bed to breastfeed her baby. It is best
not to lie completely flat, but to partially prop yourself up with pillows. Make
sure your head and back are fully supported so you can fully relax while you
feed. The baby can lie on your chest or along your torso. This position has
many benefits, including:
- The baby can take a deep breast
- Relaxation for mom
- Can be used for children of all sizes.
- Can be used when feeding twins
- Gravity can help slow down the flow of milk if it's too fast for your baby.
Side-lying breastfeeding. This position
occurs when the mother lies on her side next to the baby and breastfeeds. The
easiest way to do this is in bed, on the floor or on a large sofa. Keep your
head and back in line and rest your head on a pillow or arm. You may need to
lift the breast or nipple towards the baby's mouth. Sometimes it is more
convenient to bend your knees or even put a pillow between them.
The benefits of side-lying breastfeeding include:
- Easy to use in bed
- Allows mother's body to rest
- Avoids pressure on caesarean section stitches or other inflamed areas during recovery
- May be helpful for mothers with large breasts
Why breastfeed while lying down?
After the baby is born, lying down breastfeeding can be beneficial for
many reasons, including:
- Recovery. If the mother is recovering from a caesarean section, episiotomy, or vaginal delivery, prolonged sitting may be uncomfortable or painful. Breastfeeding while lying down can help avoid pain during recovery from childbirth.
- Comfort. The weight of a breastfed baby can be heavy on the mother's shoulders, arms and back. For some women, breastfeeding while lying down or lying down relieves tension in the upper body.
- Sleep. Falling asleep while breastfeeding can be very dangerous for the baby. However, many mothers who sleep together find it easier to go to bed at night.
- Clogged ducts. Often, a
breastfeeding woman has a blockage of the milk duct in the breast.
Breastfeeding in different positions can help overcome blockages, including
breastfeeding while lying down.
Is breastfeeding lying down safe?
Yes, if done right, lying down breastfeeding is perfectly safe. Follow
these tips to keep your child comfortable and safe:
- Practice during the day before trying to use it at night
- Make sure there are no extra pillows and bedding in your space.
- Do not fall asleep while breastfeeding lying down
- Always pay attention to your child
- Always use safe sleep practices for your baby
Lying on one side or relaxed breastfeeding can be dangerous if the
mother falls asleep; if the baby falls or suffocates on the mother's bed linen,
clothes, or body, it can be extremely dangerous. But when done right, lying
down breastfeeding can be relaxing for both mother and baby.
Ultimately, learning how to use different breastfeeding positions can be very beneficial for both mother and baby. Being able to adapt to different situations and places can make breastfeeding easier and less stressful for both of you. If you have questions or need help with breastfeeding, consider talking to a lactation consultant or talking to your doctor.