Breastfeeding can take some practice, especially during the first few weeks when you and your baby are learning together. Finding the right breastfeeding positions can make feeding more comfortable, help your baby achieve a good latch, and make it easier to adjust to different situations.
There is no single best breastfeeding position for every parent or baby. Some parents prefer the cradle hold for everyday feeds, while others find the cross-cradle, football, side-lying, or laid-back breastfeeding position more comfortable. You may also want to change breastfeeding holds depending on your baby’s age, your comfort, whether you had a C-section, or whether you are feeding twins.
The most important basics are to keep your baby close, keep their head and body aligned, support their neck and back, and bring your baby toward the breast rather than leaning forward toward your baby.
Quick answer: What is the best breastfeeding position?
The best breastfeeding position is the one that keeps you and your baby comfortable, keeps your baby’s head, neck, and body aligned, and allows your baby to achieve a deep, comfortable latch.
What Are the Main Breastfeeding Positions?
There are several baby breastfeeding positions and nursing positions you can try. The most common include:
- Cradle hold
- Cross-cradle hold
- Football or rugby hold
- Side-lying breastfeeding position
- Laid-back breastfeeding position
- Upright or koala hold
- Reclined breastfeeding position
- Double football hold for twins
You do not need to master every breastfeeding technique. Instead, try a few positions and see which ones work best for you and your baby.
Positioning and attachment go together. Even if a position feels comfortable, your baby’s head and body should remain aligned, your baby should be close to you, and your baby should be able to open their mouth widely to attach to the breast.
8 Best Breastfeeding Positions to Try
1. Cradle Hold
The cradle hold breastfeeding position is one of the most familiar and commonly used breastfeeding holds. Your baby lies across your lap while their head rests near the elbow or forearm on the same side as the breast they are feeding from.
To try the cradle hold:
- Sit somewhere comfortable with your back supported.
- Place your baby across your lap, facing you.
- Support your baby’s head with your forearm and their body with your hand and arm.
- Position your baby so their nose is level with your nipple.
- Keep your baby’s ear, shoulder, and hip in a straight line.
- Bring your baby toward your breast when their mouth opens wide.
A supportive chair, nursing pillow, or cushions can help you avoid leaning forward. The cradle hold may be less comfortable immediately after a C-section because your baby’s body can rest across your abdomen near the incision.
Best for: Everyday breastfeeding, parents who are becoming comfortable with nursing, and babies who already have a relatively easy latch.
2. Cross-Cradle Hold
The cross cradle breastfeeding position is similar to the cradle hold, but you use the arm opposite the breast to support and guide your baby.
For example, when feeding from your right breast, your left arm can support your baby’s body and neck.
This position gives you more control over your baby’s head and body, which can make it useful when you are still learning how to latch your baby.
To use the cross-cradle hold:
- Sit comfortably with your back and shoulders supported.
- Hold your baby across your body with the arm opposite the breast.
- Support your baby’s neck and shoulders.
- Keep your baby’s body facing you.
- Position your baby’s nose near your nipple.
- Wait for a wide-open mouth before bringing your baby toward the breast.
The goal is not to force your baby’s head onto the breast. Your baby needs freedom to tip their head back slightly and open their mouth wide for attachment.
Best for: New parents learning to breastfeed, newborns who need extra positioning support, and parents who want more control while working on latch.
3. Football or Rugby Hold
The football hold breastfeeding position, also called the rugby hold or clutch hold, places your baby beside your body rather than across your abdomen.
Your baby’s legs point toward your back while their head is near your breast. Your arm supports your baby’s body and your hand helps support their neck and shoulders.
To try the football or rugby hold:
- Sit comfortably with a pillow or cushion beside you.
- Position your baby at your side underneath your arm.
- Keep your baby’s hips close to your body.
- Position your baby’s nose level with your nipple.
- Support your baby’s neck and shoulders.
- Bring your baby gently toward your breast when their mouth opens wide.
This is one of the useful breastfeeding positions after C-section because your baby’s body does not need to rest across the abdominal incision. It can also be helpful for parents breastfeeding twins because each baby can be positioned on either side.
Best for: Breastfeeding after a C-section, parents who prefer not to have the baby across their abdomen, and breastfeeding twins.
4. Side-Lying Breastfeeding Position
The side lying breastfeeding position allows you and your baby to lie on your sides facing one another. It can be particularly appealing for nighttime feeds or when sitting upright is uncomfortable.
To use the side-lying position:
- Lie comfortably on your side.
- Place your baby on their side facing you, tummy-to-tummy.
- Make sure your baby’s ear, shoulder, and hip are aligned.
- Support yourself with pillows behind your back if needed.
- Keep pillows away from your baby’s face.
- Use your free arm to support and guide your baby toward the breast.
The NHS lists side-lying as an option after a difficult delivery or C-section and for breastfeeding during the night.
Important: A breastfeeding position is not the same thing as a safe sleep environment. Once the feed is finished, follow current infant safe-sleep recommendations and make sure your baby is placed in an appropriate sleep space.
Best for: Breastfeeding at night, parents recovering from delivery, and parents who find sitting uncomfortable.
5. Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position
The laid back breastfeeding position, sometimes called biological nurturing, involves sitting in a comfortable semi-reclined position while your baby lies against your body.
To try laid-back breastfeeding:
- Lean back on a sofa or bed without lying completely flat.
- Support your back, shoulders, and neck with cushions or pillows.
- Place your baby against your body.
- Keep your baby close and facing you.
- Make sure you can see your baby comfortably.
- Gently guide your baby toward the nipple when they are ready to attach.
The laid-back breastfeeding position can be especially comfortable during the early days. After a C-section, it may also allow the baby to rest across your body away from the incision.
Best for: New parents, early breastfeeding, relaxed feeds, and parents looking for a comfortable reclined position.
6. Upright or Koala Hold
The upright or koala breastfeeding position keeps your baby more upright while feeding. Your baby sits facing your body with their legs positioned on either side of your thigh or hip, while you provide support.
This position can be worth trying as your baby becomes more comfortable with breastfeeding and has better head and body control.
When using an upright breastfeeding position:
- Keep your baby close to your body.
- Support your baby’s body securely.
- Make sure your baby can breathe comfortably.
- Keep the head and neck in a natural position.
- Check that your baby can maintain a comfortable latch.
Best for: Babies who are comfortable feeding more upright and parents who prefer an alternative to traditional lap-based breastfeeding holds.
7. Reclined Breastfeeding Position
The reclined breastfeeding position is closely related to laid-back nursing. Instead of sitting completely upright, you recline enough to support your back and allow your baby to rest comfortably against you.
The goal is to create a relaxed position rather than forcing your baby into a particular angle.
Try:
- Supporting your back and shoulders.
- Keeping your baby close to your body.
- Positioning your baby’s nose near your nipple.
- Allowing your baby’s head to move naturally.
- Checking that your baby’s body remains aligned.
A reclined position can be particularly useful when you want to reduce strain on your back and shoulders during longer feeds.
Best for: Comfortable breastfeeding positions for new moms and parents who experience back or shoulder discomfort when sitting upright.
8. Double Football Hold for Breastfeeding Twins
Parents breastfeeding twins may use a double football hold to feed both babies at the same time. Each baby is positioned at one side of the parent’s body, similar to the football or rugby hold.
A supportive nursing pillow can make it easier to position both babies, but individual latch and comfort still matter.
When breastfeeding twins:
- Position each baby securely.
- Check each baby’s latch separately.
- Make sure both babies can breathe freely.
- Use pillows or cushions for your own support.
- Ask a lactation professional for hands-on guidance if simultaneous feeding feels difficult.
The rugby/football hold is one position that can allow twins to feed at the same time.
How to Choose the Best Breastfeeding Position for You
The best breastfeeding positions can change from one feed to another. Your baby’s age, your recovery, your breast anatomy, and your feeding situation can all influence which nursing position feels most comfortable.
If You Are Breastfeeding a Newborn
For a newborn, choose a position that gives you good support and allows you to see and guide your baby’s attachment. The cross-cradle hold can give you additional control while you are learning how to position your baby.
Cradle, cross-cradle, laid-back, and football holds can all be options depending on your comfort and your baby’s needs.
If You Had a C-Section
After a C-section, you may prefer breastfeeding positions that avoid pressure on your abdomen. The football or rugby hold, side-lying position, and laid-back breastfeeding position can be useful options.
Your comfort should guide the choice. If a position puts pressure on your incision or causes pain, try another hold.
If You Are Breastfeeding at Night
The side-lying breastfeeding position can be convenient for nighttime feeds, particularly when sitting upright is uncomfortable.
However, always separate nighttime breastfeeding from infant sleep safety. If you are tired or think you might fall asleep, take appropriate precautions and return your baby to a safe sleep space after feeding.
If You Have Sore Nipples
Changing breastfeeding positions may change the area of the breast and nipple receiving pressure, but persistent pain should not simply be considered a normal part of breastfeeding.
Check your baby’s latch and positioning. Ongoing pain, nipple cracking, or bleeding can be signs that your baby’s attachment needs assessment.
If You Are Breastfeeding Twins
The football or rugby hold can be useful for twins because it allows a baby to be positioned on each side of your body. Some parents use a double football hold for simultaneous feeding.
If You Are Still Learning to Latch
The cross-cradle position may give you more control while learning how to position your newborn. Regardless of the hold you choose, focus on keeping your baby close, aligned, and facing the breast.
How to Position Your Baby for a Good Breastfeeding Latch
Knowing how to position baby while breastfeeding is just as important as choosing a comfortable breastfeeding hold.
Before your baby latches:
- Get yourself comfortable first.
- Keep your baby close to your body.
- Position your baby so their head and body are in a straight line.
- Keep your baby facing your breast.
- Place your baby’s nose approximately level with your nipple.
- Let your baby’s head tip back slightly.
- Wait for your baby’s mouth to open wide.
- Bring your baby toward the breast rather than leaning your breast toward your baby.
Your baby should take a good mouthful of breast rather than sucking only on the nipple. NHS guidance also recommends avoiding holding the back of the baby’s head tightly because babies need to be able to tip their heads back as they attach.
A simple way to remember the basics is: close, aligned, supported, and nose-to-nipple.
What Does a Good Breastfeeding Latch Look Like?
A good latch helps your baby feed effectively and can make breastfeeding more comfortable.
Signs Your Baby Has a Good Latch
Signs of effective nursing can include:
- Your baby’s mouth is open wide.
- Their lips are turned outward.
- Their chin rests against the breast.
- Your baby takes a good amount of breast tissue into their mouth.
- Their sucking is rhythmic and deep.
- You can hear regular swallowing.
- Your nipple feels comfortable after the initial attachment.
The American Academy of Pediatrics identifies these as signs associated with correct nursing.
Signs Your Baby May Not Be Latched Correctly
Possible signs of a positioning or attachment problem include:
- Persistent pain during the feed
- Cracked or bleeding nipples
- Baby sucking mainly on the nipple
- Clicking sounds
- Puckered cheeks
- Irregular or very light sucking
- Little or no audible swallowing
- Baby’s head and body being out of alignment
If breastfeeding remains painful or your baby is having difficulty feeding, speak with your baby’s pediatrician, midwife, lactation consultant, or another qualified breastfeeding professional.
Breastfeeding Positions for Different Situations
Different situations may call for different breastfeeding positions for newborns and parents.
Best Breastfeeding Positions After a C-Section
The football or rugby hold can keep your baby’s body away from your abdominal incision. Side-lying and laid-back breastfeeding can also be options, depending on your comfort and recovery.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns
The cross-cradle, cradle, laid-back, and football holds can all be useful for newborn breastfeeding. Rather than choosing one “easiest breastfeeding position for newborn” universally, focus on the position that gives you good support and allows your baby to latch comfortably.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Twins
The football or rugby hold is commonly used when breastfeeding twins because each baby can be positioned at one side of the parent’s body.
Best Breastfeeding Positions at Night
The side-lying position can be convenient for nighttime breastfeeding. Make sure you understand safe sleep practices and return your baby to a safe sleep space when the feed is over.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Sore Nipples
Try changing positions and reassessing your baby’s latch. If pain continues throughout feeds or you develop nipple damage, seek professional breastfeeding support rather than repeatedly changing positions without addressing the underlying problem.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Large Breasts
Parents with larger breasts may find that additional support helps them maintain a comfortable position. A supportive pillow or rolled towel can help bring the baby to the correct height while allowing you to keep your shoulders relaxed.
There is no single breastfeeding position for large breasts that works for everyone. Try cradle, cross-cradle, football, or laid-back positions and choose the one that provides the best combination of comfort and latch.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Small Breasts
Breast size does not determine whether you can breastfeed successfully. Parents with smaller breasts can use the same range of breastfeeding holds, including cradle, cross-cradle, football, side-lying, and laid-back positions.
The key is positioning your baby close enough and at the right height for a comfortable latch.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for Premature or Small Babies
Premature or medically fragile babies may need additional feeding support. Ask your baby’s healthcare team or a qualified lactation professional to help you find an appropriate position and assess your baby’s latch and feeding effectiveness.
Common Breastfeeding Positioning Mistakes to Avoid
Even a comfortable breastfeeding hold can become uncomfortable if your baby’s positioning is not quite right.
Common mistakes include:
- Leaning forward toward your baby
- Twisting your baby’s neck
- Keeping your baby too far away from your breast
- Supporting only your baby’s head instead of the whole body
- Holding the back of your baby’s head tightly
- Allowing pillows to interfere with your baby’s face or airway
- Continuing through significant or persistent pain
- Assuming one breastfeeding position has to work for every feed
Your baby’s ear, shoulder, and hip should generally remain aligned, and your baby should face your breast. A twisted head or neck can make swallowing more difficult.
How to Make Breastfeeding More Comfortable
Comfort is an important part of successful positioning.
Before starting a feed:
- Sit or lie in a comfortable position.
- Support your back, shoulders, and arms.
- Keep water nearby.
- Use pillows or cushions when they genuinely improve support.
- Bring your baby to your breast instead of leaning forward.
- Relax your shoulders.
- Adjust your position before your baby latches.
The NHS recommends getting comfortable before feeding and using pillows or cushions when needed.
If your back, neck, or shoulders hurt during a feed, pause and reposition yourself. A breastfeeding position should not require you to hold an uncomfortable posture for an extended period.
Can Changing Breastfeeding Positions Help With Latch or Breast Comfort?
Yes, changing positions can sometimes make it easier to find a comfortable angle for your baby to attach. Different breastfeeding techniques and holds can also give you more control over your baby’s alignment.
However, changing positions is not a substitute for addressing an ongoing latch problem. If breastfeeding is consistently painful, your nipples are damaged, or your baby appears to be struggling to transfer milk, seek professional help.
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that incorrect nursing can be associated with nipple pain or damage and recommends discussing breastfeeding concerns with your baby’s pediatrician.
Breastfeeding Positions: Quick Comparison Chart
| Position | Best For | Main Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Cradle | Everyday feeds | Simple and familiar |
| Cross-cradle | Learning to latch | Gives more control during attachment |
| Football/Rugby | C-section, twins | Keeps baby’s body beside you |
| Side-lying | Night feeds | Allows feeding while lying on your side |
| Laid-back | Early breastfeeding | Comfortable, semi-reclined positioning |
| Upright/Koala | More upright feeds | Keeps baby in a more upright position |
| Reclined | Parent comfort | Can reduce strain from sitting upright |
| Double football | Twins | Can allow simultaneous feeding |
Remember that these are starting points rather than strict rules. The best breastfeeding position for newborns or older babies is the one that supports a comfortable, effective feed for your individual situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding Positions
What is the best position for breastfeeding?
There is no single best breastfeeding position for everyone. Cradle, cross-cradle, football, side-lying, laid-back, and other breastfeeding holds can all work. The right position should keep you comfortable, keep your baby’s head and body aligned, and allow your baby to achieve a deep, comfortable latch.
What is the best breastfeeding position for a newborn?
The best breastfeeding position for a newborn is one that gives you good support and makes it easy to maintain proper alignment and attachment. Cross-cradle, cradle, laid-back, and football holds are options. Focus on keeping your baby close and allowing them to open their mouth wide for a deep latch.
What is the best breastfeeding position after a C-section?
Football or rugby, side-lying, and laid-back breastfeeding positions may be comfortable after a C-section because they can reduce pressure on the abdominal incision. Your comfort and recovery should guide your choice.
Is side-lying breastfeeding safe?
Side-lying can be used as a breastfeeding position, including for nighttime feeds. However, feeding while lying down is different from allowing a baby to sleep in an adult bed. Follow current safe-sleep guidance and return your baby to an appropriate safe sleep space after feeding.
What is the easiest breastfeeding position for beginners?
Many parents start with the cradle or cross-cradle hold. Cross-cradle may provide additional control while you are learning how to position your baby’s head and body and work on attachment. However, the easiest breastfeeding position varies from one parent and baby to another.
Why does breastfeeding hurt in certain positions?
Pain can sometimes be related to positioning or attachment. If your baby is mainly sucking on the nipple rather than taking a good amount of breast tissue, you may experience pain or nipple damage. Persistent pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional or qualified lactation specialist.
How do I know if my baby is positioned correctly?
Your baby’s head and body should be aligned, their body should face you, and they should be close to the breast. Their nose can be positioned near nipple level, allowing them to open their mouth widely and attach deeply. Their cheeks should remain rounded during effective sucking.
Can I breastfeed twins at the same time?
Yes. Some parents breastfeed twins simultaneously using positions such as the double football hold. The rugby or football position allows each baby to be positioned at one side of the body. Individual latch and comfort should still be checked for each baby.
Should I change breastfeeding positions?
You can change breastfeeding positions whenever you want. Changing positions may improve comfort, make it easier to attach your baby, or work better for different circumstances such as nighttime feeds, recovery after a C-section, or feeding twins.
Can breastfeeding positions affect latch?
Yes. Your baby’s alignment, distance from your body, head position, and angle toward the breast can all affect attachment. Good positioning helps your baby approach the breast comfortably and take a good mouthful of breast tissue.
When to Get Breastfeeding Help
Breastfeeding is a skill that you and your baby learn together, and it is normal to have questions. However, ongoing difficulties deserve attention.
Consider getting professional breastfeeding help if:
- Breastfeeding remains consistently painful.
- Your nipples are cracked or bleeding.
- Your baby repeatedly struggles to latch.
- Your baby appears unable to feed effectively.
- Your baby seems hungry after most feeds.
- You are concerned about your baby’s weight gain or milk intake.
- You have significant breast or nipple pain.
- You are worried that something is not right during feeds.
A pediatrician, midwife, lactation consultant, or qualified breastfeeding specialist can watch a feed and help you adjust your baby’s position and latch. The American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents to contact their baby’s pediatrician with breastfeeding concerns.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Right Breastfeeding Position
Finding comfortable breastfeeding positions can make a big difference during those many feeds in the early weeks and months. You do not have to stick with one breastfeeding hold. Cradle, cross-cradle, football, side-lying, laid-back, upright, and reclined positions can all have a place in your breastfeeding routine.
Start with the position that feels comfortable, keep your baby close and well aligned, and pay attention to the latch. If something hurts or feeding does not seem to be going well, changing position may help—but persistent pain or feeding concerns are a good reason to seek professional support.
Most importantly, give yourself time. Breastfeeding is something you and your baby learn together, and finding the right position may take a little experimentation.
