Cross Cradle Position
Course Content
Final Note
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Breastfeeding Basics sponsored by Medela
About Lesson

The cross-cradle breastfeeding position is another popular position that provides extra support and control for the baby during breastfeeding. Here’s how you can achieve the cross-cradle position:

Sit in a comfortable chair with good back support or position yourself on a bed or couch with pillows or cushions for support.

Hold your baby with the arm opposite to the breast you’ll be nursing from. For example, if you’re breastfeeding from your right breast, use your left arm to support your baby.

Use your forearm and hand to support your baby’s head and neck. Place your hand at the base of your baby’s head with your thumb behind their ear and your fingers supporting their neck.

Bring your baby’s body close to your breast, aligning their nose with your nipple. Their body should face yours, and their legs can rest on your forearm or be tucked under your arm.

Gently guide your baby’s mouth to your breast, ensuring they have a wide latch. Their lower lip and tongue should be positioned beneath the nipple, while their top lip flanges outward.

Support your breast with your free hand, if needed, to help guide your baby’s mouth onto the nipple and areola for a deep latch. Use your fingers to hold your breast in a way that doesn’t interfere with your baby’s ability to latch properly.

Check that your baby’s chin is touching your breast, and their nose is not blocked, allowing them to breathe comfortably while nursing.

During the feeding, you can use your free hand to stroke your baby’s back, hold their hand, or provide additional support as needed.

If you need to switch sides or if your baby finishes nursing on one breast, you can reposition yourself and your baby to the other breast using the cross-cradle hold on the opposite side.

Remember to adjust the position as necessary to ensure both you and your baby are comfortable.