This article has been reviewed by Shannon McLaughlin, IBCLC. However, this review does not constitute a warranty of medical accuracy and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or lactation consultant before making decisions about your health or your child’s health.
Because no one wants a crick in their neck and a nipple in a chokehold.
Breastfeeding positions can make a huge difference in how comfortable, confident, and successful your feeding journey feels. When you’re holding a newborn while recovering from birth, dealing with exhaustion, and figuring out latching, the right position can help protect your back, support a deeper latch, and make feeding feel much more manageable. There’s no single “perfect” way—just the breastfeeding positions that work best for you and your baby.
Let’s break down the best breastfeeding positions so you can feed like a pro—without needing a chiropractor on speed dial.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns
1. Laid-Back / Biological Nurturing
Also known as: “The Chill Vibe”
This position is basically the postpartum version of “let the record play and see what happens.”
How it works:
- Recline back on the couch or bed at a 45° angle.
- Place baby tummy-down on your chest.
- Let gravity and instincts do the work—baby uses reflexes to root and latch.
Great for: Skin-to-skin, babies with a strong rooting reflex, and tired moms who need both hands free for snacks.
2. Cross-Cradle Hold
Also known as: “Training Wheels”
This is a fave for new moms because it gives you the most control over baby’s head during latching.
How it works:
- Hold baby with the arm opposite the breast you’re feeding from.
- Support their head with your hand, and guide them to the breast.
- Use your other hand to shape the breast if needed (think hamburger, not spaghetti).
Great for: Newborns learning to latch, and babies who need help staying on the breast.
3. Cradle Hold
Also known as: “The Classic”
Once baby is latching like a champ, this go-to hold feels natural and cozy.
How it works:
- Baby’s head rests in the crook of your arm (same side as the breast they’re nursing from).
- Their body lies across your front, tummy to tummy.
Great for: Older newborns, confident feeders, and moms looking to feed one-handed while Googling “how to fold a swaddle.”
4. Football Hold
Also known as: “The Sidekick”
Picture tucking baby under your arm like a teeny football—minus the touchdown dance (unless you want to).
How it works:
- Baby is turned toward you, tucked under your arm, feet pointing toward your back.
- Support baby’s neck and shoulders with your hand.
Great for: C-section recovery (no pressure on the abdomen), twins, or moms with large breasts or flat nipples.
5. Side-Lying Position
Also known as: “Let’s Feed and Nap”
This one’s a lifesaver for middle-of-the-night feeds when sitting up feels like running a marathon.
How it works:
- Lie on your side with baby facing you, tummy to tummy.
- Use a rolled blanket or towel behind baby for stability, but leave that head free.
Great for: Bed-sharing families, C-section healing, and anyone who values horizontal living.
Bonus Tips: Making Any Position Work
- Use pillows (or a nursing pillow) to support your arms and baby’s weight. Your back will thank you.
- Baby’s body should always face yours—nose to nipple is the golden rule.
- Check for a deep latch no matter the position: lips flanged, both cheeks touching breast tissue, chin tucked into breast, and no pinching pain.
- Switch it up! Different positions can help prevent sore spots, plugged ducts, and boredom (yes, that’s real).
The Everyboob Bottom Line
No position is “the best”—the best one is the one where:
– Baby is latched
– You’re not wincing
– Your arm isn’t going numb
– You’re comfy enough to scroll TikTok, sip water, or maybe sneak a nap
The truth about breastfeeding positions is that there is no universal “right” choice—only what works for your body and your baby. Whether you prefer laid-back nursing, football hold, or side-lying feeds, experimenting with different breastfeeding positions can improve comfort, support better latching, and make feeding feel less stressful overall. Over time, most parents naturally find the positions that work best for their unique rhythm.
