The koala hold is an upright position with your baby facing you for the breastfeed.
The koala breastfeeding position can be a great option in a number of circumstances. It works for the majority of babies but if your baby is particularly young then you will need to provide them with extra support.
Here you can access a free video lesson on the koala breastfeeding position from my online breastfeeding course. You will need to create an account to access the video for free. You are also able access a free video lesson on hand expressing, see chapter ‘When its not direct from the breast’.
When to use the koala breastfeeding position
Digestive Comfort / Reflux
Keeping babies upright during breastfeeding can significantly reduce discomfort associated with reflux. An upright position can allow for easier digestion and minimising the likelihood of vomiting.
Tongue Tie (ankyloglossia)
For babies with tongue tie this position can facilitate better milk transfer. The upright hold can allow for a more effective latch and help the baby engage more effectively with the breast.
This was the position that I favored when my little boy’s posterior tongue tie became problematic for feeding. I was also able to use breast compressions and a slight forward angle to allow gravity to help with milk transfer.
Colds and Ear Infections
For infants experiencing colds and or ear infections, an upright position can help alleviate pain and discomfort while feeding, as it reduces pressure in the ear canals.
Bonding
The koala position can also be a lovely feeding position for bonding and engagement with your baby. The position allows for intimate eye contact and physical closeness.
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How to use the koala breastfeeding position
In this position you sit on a chair or sofa and sit your baby on your lap facing towards you. If they are very young or a smaller baby you may need to position them on a cushion to allow them to be at the correct height to reach your breast.
As with many other breastfeeding positions we are aiming to begin with a nose to nipple position. An older baby will sit astride your leg.
Support your baby from their shoulders with your fingers extending up their neck or ear to ear. This will allow you to control their head without creating pressure on the back of their head. You can use your other hand to support your baby’s back.
With your baby positioned nose to nipple you can allow them to tip their head back when they open their mouth and you can bring them forward onto your breast. You can maintain this position through the feed or slightly recline yourself and allow your baby’s weight to rest against your tummy.
If your baby is very young you need to be particularly mindful of changes in your position that you make affecting the latch to your breast. An older baby will usually manage movements without an issue.
As with any breastfeeding position, a good position is one that you and your baby feels comfortable in. If you need help with this position or require other breast or supplement feeding support then please do contact me.
