Laid back, cross cradle, rugby hold and side lying positions are all good positions for latching a newborn baby to breastfeed them. But, is there a wrong breastfeeding position for a newborn? In my opinion, yes.
Cradle position is often the feeding position we see on our screens and when we see families feeding their babies in public. This is a very comfortable position for the breastfeeding parent and can be great for feeding older babies. However, it is not ideal for latching a newborn baby to your breast as it does not provide them with the head support they usually require when they are in an upright position.
If you would like to enjoy cradle hold as a breastfeeding position I would suggest you first latch your newborn baby in a cross cradle position and then when they are deeply attached gently bring your other arm around to support them. You can then slide the first arm out and position it comfortably for you.
You can also enjoy the cradle position when your baby has mastered their deep latch to your breast. It is probably these very slightly older babies that you are seeing in cafes or a mother that has made herself more comfortable after she has already latched her baby to her breast.
All that said, if cradle position is working well to latch your baby then you should certainly continue with it.
Sign up for free tips and advice
Get my video guide to
breastfeeding positions
Plus
just for signing up
Tell me when your baby is due or when they were born so that I can send you the most relevant tips
