The Right Breastfeeding Position

There’s no one-size-fits-all position for breastfeeding. It’s up to you and your baby to discover what works best for you both—and those preferences may shift as your little one grows stronger and more coordinated.

What makes a good position?

Breastfeeding position A good breastfeeding position is one that allows for an effective latch and doesn’t cause you any pain. To keep things smooth and comfy, try to stick to these 5 golden rules:

  1. Your baby’s head should be in line with their body—no twisting or turning needed to reach the breast.
  2. Their head should be slightly tilted back (you may need to gently support it depending on your chosen position).
  3. Their chin should be tucked into the breast.
  4. Their nose should be free, not pressed into your skin.
  5. Their mouth should be wide open with lips flanged outward, covering most of the areola.

Not sure if your latch is right?
Don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant. They’re kind, knowledgeable, and full of clever tips to help you breastfeed with ease and confidence!

Primitive Reflexes & Natural Positioning

At birth, your baby comes equipped with a set of instinctive survival skills known as primitive reflexes—like sucking and swallowing. Research shows that some of these reflexes can help Baby latch more effectively.
Take rooting, for example: place Baby belly-down on your chest, and they’ll naturally scoot toward your breast. Or try stroking their cheek—they’ll turn and open their mouth, ready to feed.
By reclining back slightly, you allow Baby to activate these reflexes and find a comfy, effective position on their own. Meanwhile, you get to relax and gently guide them as needed.

Note: This laid-back position can be especially helpful for babies dealing with acid reflux (GERD).

Glamformum - Practical Breastfeeding Guide