“Breastfeeding, Positioning & Busting out the Myths”.

Breastfeeding is a skill—something you and your baby learn together. One of the keys to successful and comfortable breastfeeding is positioning. The way you hold your baby can impact latch, milk transfer, and even help prevent nipple pain or back strain. Let’s explore the most common breastfeeding positions and how to find what works best for your body and your baby, and debunk some common myths that often cause stress for new parents.

Today, I want to start with some breastfeeding Myths such as,

1. Breastfeeding doesn’t hurt.

2. Breastfeeding is all or nothing.

3. Never wake a sleeping baby.

4. Babies must nurse from both breasts at each feeding.

5. Breastfeeding is a reliable form of birth control.

6. Engagement is normal.

7. Breasts not feeling full means not enough milk.

8. You must eliminate specific foods when breastfeeding.

Busting Breastfeeding Myths

Even well-meaning advice can mislead. Let’s clear up a few common breastfeeding myths:

1. "Breastfeeding doesn’t hurt."

Some discomfort is normal at first, but pain is a sign that something (usually the latch) needs adjustment. Breastfeeding should not be consistently painful.

2. "Breastfeeding is all or nothing."

Not true. Any amount of breastmilk is beneficial. Many parents combo feed, pump part-time, or supplement—and that’s still breastfeeding.

3. "Never wake a sleeping baby."

Newborns may need to be woken to feed, especially in the early weeks if they’re not gaining weight or feeding often enough.

4. "Babies must nurse from both breasts at each feeding."

Some babies are satisfied after one side. As long as your baby is growing well, you can alternate sides per feed.

5. "Breastfeeding is a reliable form of birth control."

While exclusive breastfeeding may delay ovulation (Lactational Amenorrhea Method), it's not foolproof. Don't rely on it alone for contraception.

6. "Engorgement is normal."

Temporary fullness can occur, but painful engorgement may indicate overproduction or infrequent feeding. It’s treatable and should be addressed.

7. "Breasts not feeling full means not enough milk."

As supply regulates, your breasts may feel softer, but still produce plenty of milk. Fullness isn’t a reliable measure of milk supply.

8. "You must eliminate specific foods when breastfeeding."

There’s no universal list of foods to avoid. Unless the baby has symptoms, restrictive diets aren’t necessary; you can also always speak to your baby’s pediatrician, IBCLC or even your OBGYN.

Breastfeeding Positions: What Works for You

1. Cradle Hold – Traditional hold with baby’s head in your elbow.

2. Cross-Cradle Hold – Good for early learning and guiding latch.

3. Football Hold – Great post-C-section or for twins.

4. Side-Lying – Ideal for resting and night feeds.

5. Laid-Back/Natural Position – Uses baby’s instincts and gravity.

Positioning matters because it affects latch, comfort, and milk transfer. The right position is the one that works for you and your baby.

🔍 The Importance of an Asymmetric Latch

In any position, aim for an asymmetric latch — where more of the areola is in baby’s mouth toward the lower jaw. This helps your baby get a deeper latch and allows better milk transfer.

Signs of an effective asymmetric latch:

• Baby's chin touches the breast, nose is free.

• Baby’s mouth opens wide with lips flanged outward.

• More of the bottom of the areola is in the baby’s mouth than the top.

• No clicking or smacking sounds.

• You feel a gentle tug, not pinching or pain.

📚 According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine and La Leche League International, encouraging an asymmetric latch reduces nipple pain and trauma, improves infant milk transfer, and helps babies drain the breast more efficiently.

💬 Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding is personal. You deserve real, evidence-based support—not pressure or guilt. Whether you’re breastfeeding, pumping, or formula feeding, your feeding journey matters.