If you breastfeed in this position, you will not face any problem in latching; your baby will drink milk to his/her heart’s content

Cradle Hold

This is the most common position. For this, sit up straight and have good back support. Hold your baby close to your body, holding them in your arm like a cradle, with their head in the bend of your elbow. Support their back and neck with your arm. Bring the baby’s head towards your breast, making sure that their ears, shoulders and hips are in line. First bring their chin towards your breast, then gently stroke their cheek to open their mouth wide. Let them latch on to your nipple and the areola around it.

Cross Cradle Hold

“This position provides extra support for smaller babies or babies who have difficulty latching on,” says Radha Gupta, founder of All About Birthing, in an article published in the Times of India.

For this, sit comfortably and give your back good support. Support your baby’s head and neck with your opposite arm, cradle their head under your hand. Place one of their arms across your chest, keeping their hand near the breast on your other side. Bring your baby close to your body, making sure their ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line. First bring their chin towards your breast, then open their mouth wide and encourage them to latch on.

Football Hold

This position helps your lower breast ducts drain well and reduces pressure on your abdomen, making it ideal for engorged breasts or after a C-section.

Lie on your side with your head propped up on pillows. Place your baby under your arm like a football, with their tummy against your side and their head facing your breast. Support your breast with one hand and guide your baby’s chin first for latch.

Side-Lying Position

This comfortable position is excellent for nighttime feedings or when you’re both tired.

Lie on your side with your baby facing you and use pillows for support. Bring your baby close to you, with their tummy over your arm and their head toward your breast. Support your breast and guide your baby’s head to latch.

Reclined Position

If your baby has trouble latching, this position is perfect. Lie down comfortably on a bed or chair and use pillows for support. Place your baby on top of you, with their tummy against yours and their head facing your breast. Support your breast and guide your baby’s chin first to latch.

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