You can breastfeed your baby in many different positions. The most common breastfeeding positions are the laid back breastfeeding position, the cradle position, the cross cradle hold, the football breastfeeding position, and the side lying breastfeeding position.

When breastfeeding is new to you, you may want to try some of the more popular breastfeeding positions that you have read about, but as you become more confident, you can experiment with others to figure out what's most comfortable for you.

Learn more about the five most common breastfeeding positions to get you started.

Why Do Breastfeeding Positions Matter?

It's very common to have some initial challenges while you and your baby figure out nursing. There is often a steep learning curve which can feel overwhelming, confusing, and frustrating. As you get the hang of it and find positions that work for you, breastfeeding typically gets much easier. Reach out to a medical provider or lactation consultant if you're having any trouble such as discomfort, pain, or difficulty getting your baby to latch on.

Friends or family members who have breastfed can be a great resource, so ask for guidance if needed.

Common Breastfeeding Positions

While there are many ways to nurse your baby, people tend to settle on several common breastfeeding positions. Experiment with different options to find one (or more) that facilitates your baby's latch and is comfortable for you. If you're having any breastfeeding issues, such as nipple pain, a change in position can often provide relief.

You can breastfeed lying down, sitting up, or even standing. As long as you and your baby are comfortable and your baby can latch well, you can nurse in any position you choose.

The Laid-Back Breastfeeding Position

This lay down position can be used from the first feeding session. To take the laid back breastfeeding position place your baby lengthwise along your chest and stomach while you recline with your back, shoulders, and head. This position tunes into your baby's natural nursing instincts, allowing the baby to take the lead—and allowing you to rest.

Research shows this position also improves latch and reduces nipple discomfort for the breastfeeding parent. It's a good choice for anyone, but it may be especially helpful if you're nursing a preemie, twins, or a baby who has difficulty latching on.

The Cradle Position

The cradle hold is when your baby's face is adjacent to your chest with their body wrapped around the side of your chest, and their legs slipped under your arm. It is probably the most popular nursing position. It may be more difficult to breastfeed in this position right from the start, but once your baby can latch on well, this is a comfortable and common way to breastfeed.

The Cross-Cradle Hold

The cross-cradle, or crossover hold, works well for nursing preemies, newborns, and babies that have trouble getting latched on. This position makes it easier to view your nipple and your baby's mouth. Plus, since you are holding your baby's head, you have more control to guide your baby into a good latch.

The Football Breastfeeding Position

Also called the clutch hold, the football position in breastfeeding is the perfect choice for nursing twins. When taking the football breastfeeding position, you hold your baby to your chest with your elbow tucked in like your holding a football—keeping the baby upright on your forearm.

It's a good position for breastfeeding after a Cesarean section since the baby does not lay across your abdomen. Parents with larger breasts and those with flat or inverted nipples may prefer to use this hold, too. It's another position that offers a better view of your baby's mouth and your nipples.

The Side-Lying Breastfeeding Position

The side-lying breastfeeding position is when you and your baby lay next to each other with your baby's mouth parallel to the nipple, you can hold your baby by their back so they can get close enough to latch. This position is great when you're tired and want to nurse while lying down. It's a very natural choice for nighttime feedings and it's also helpful for parents who have had a C-section.

Whether you choose to use one of these nursing positions or find new positions of your own, it's a good idea to alternate the positions that you use. By using different holds, you will allow your baby to more effectively drain the different areas of your breasts. This will help to prevent plugged milk ducts and some of the other common problems of breastfeeding.