Breastfeeding Lying Down: A Guide For New Moms

Breastfeeding is an experience that evokes lots of emotions and it is not easy, especially for first-time moms. During the first few weeks, a mother and her baby must settle for a good position while breastfeeding both are comfortable. One of the widely used and probably preferred by many mothers the technique is ‘feeding your baby lying down’.

This method benefits both the mother by relieving her fatigue as well as helping the baby feel comfortable. Let’s explore the detailed guide to breastfeeding lying down, from tips to specific steps, so you can be more confident and comfortable in your breastfeeding journey.

Benefits Of Breastfeeding Lying Down

Breastfeeding while lying down has many benefits. First, the mother will feel more comfortable, instead of having to sit up and strain her back and arms. For that reason, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) still recommends that mother and baby sleep separately

In addition, skin-to-skin contact increases the bond between mother and child. If you have an excess milk supply or a strong let-down reflex, breastfeeding in a side-lying position may be beneficial for your baby. This position can help your baby better control milk flow because gravity has less effect on your letdown reflex. Your baby has no trouble removing excess milk from his mouth.

During a cesarean section, mothers should breastfeed their babies in a lying position because it does not put any pressure on the incision, helping the wound heal faster. Resting without the baby’s weight on the scar is one aspect that eases the healing process

If you give birth in a hospital, bed rails can help prevent your baby from rolling over while you breastfeed, giving you peace of mind.

How To Breastfeed Lying Down

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you start breastfeeding while lying down.

1. Lay your baby on his back on the floor or in a large bed. Make sure there are no blankets, sheets, or pillows near his face. This will avoid the risk of suffocation by blankets, pillows, or other objects.
2. Lie down next to your baby with your belly facing your baby’s head. Place a pillow under your head for support and make sure it is out of your baby’s reach. For added comfort, you can also place a pillow behind your back or between your legs when lying on your side. This arrangement helps you maintain a comfortable and secure position while breastfeeding.
3. Move your baby so that his nose is level with your nipple. Alternatively, hold his arms and roll him to one side so that his hips or knees are close to your hips. By adjusting your baby’s position, he can have better access to the milk and suckle. It also reduces the risk of nipple soreness in the mother. Keeping the nose level with the nipple is key to a good suckle.
4. A stance that helps babies to breastfeed better is when the baby’s ears, shoulders, and hips are in a straight line so your infant can easily suckle. This position decreases the possibility of the baby swallowing air while feeding, which leads to gas formation.
5. Ensure the infant’s ears, shoulders and hips form a straight line so that the newborn can suckle easily. This posture aids in the proper breastfeeding of the child. It lowers the probability of the baby inhaling air — which causes flatulence — as he feeds from her breast.
6. If necessary, roll the baby and mother to opposite sides or lean forward to feed the baby on the other breast. Switch sides while breastfeeding. This helps ensure that both breasts are fed often. It cuts the risk of engorgement and plugged milk ducts¹. This also helps maintain a stable milk supply and reduces health problems for the mother.

At times, women can observe this peculiar phenomenon. Their breasts fail to completely or evenly empty after the feeding process takes place while they are in a position of lying on their sides. Such behavior can result in breast engorgement and plugged ducts — further escalating to mastitis or even leading to reduced milk supply. Be watchful, therefore.

If you notice your breasts not being fully drained, change the feeding position from side-lying to sitting up and continue with the feed or express the remaining milk. This step would go a long way in sustaining your milk production and thwarting possible complications like mastitis, which could arise due to unemptied milk in your breasts alongside engorgement or plugged ducts that it may also contribute to.

Consequences Of Lying Down And Breastfeeding Incorrectly

Breastfeeding in the side-lying position can be a peaceful and convenient option for many mothers. However, it does come with its own set of challenges. Understanding these challenges can help you address them effectively, ensuring a positive breastfeeding experience.

Some babies may have difficulty latching properly when breastfeeding in the side-lying position. To encourage a good latch, make sure your baby’s mouth is wide open and aligned with your nipple. You may need to use your hand to guide your breast into your mouth initially. Practice and patience are key to achieving a successful latch.

Without proper support, your baby may roll away from you during feeding. To prevent this, place a rolled-up blanket or pillow behind your baby’s back. This will help keep them from rolling away and maintain a comfortable feeding position.

Sometimes, breasts may not fully or evenly drain during side-lying breastfeeding. This can lead to issues such as engorgement, plugged ducts, or mastitis², which can be uncomfortable and affect your milk supply. After feeding, check your breasts for fullness. If necessary, sit up to finish the feed or express some milk to ensure proper drainage.

There is a risk of obstructing the baby’s airway if the face is pressed too closely against the breast. To avoid this, make sure your baby’s nose is just touching your nipple and that their face is not squashed into your breast. This will enable them to breathe comfortably while feeding.

Side-lying breastfeeding can be restful and convenient for many mothers. However, it does have its possess set of challenges. Understanding these issues can help you address them better. It’s going to ensure a positive breastfeeding experience.

Some babies may struggle to latch properly when breastfeeding in the side-lying position. Ensure your baby’s mouth is wide open and aligned with your nipple. You might need to use your hand to guide your breast into the baby’s mouth initially to help them latch properly. Practice and patience are keys.

Without proper support, your baby may roll away from you during feeding. Use a rolled-up blanket or pillow behind your baby’s back. It keeps them from rolling away.

Sometimes, breasts may not drain fully or evenly. This can lead to issues such as engorgement, plugged ducts, or mastitis, which can be uncomfortable and impact your milk supply. Check your breasts for fullness after feeding. If it’s necessary, sit up to finish the feed or express some milk to ensure proper drainage.

There is a risk of the baby’s airway being obstructed if the face is pressed too closely against the breast. Ensure your baby’s nose is just touching your nipple and that their face is not squashed into your breast. This allows them to breathe comfortably while feeding.

Breastfeed A Newborn Lying On Your Side?

You may wonder whether breastfeeding while lying on your side is safe for your small and fragile baby. With the right safety measures, you can breastfeed your baby lying on your side from the first feeding. However, for very small infants, additional support may be needed.

It’s crucial to stay awake while feeding your newborn to watch their safety. Bed sharing raises the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). So, put your newborn in a separate, safe bed if they fall asleep.

Final Thought

If you’re a new parent, chances are you’re feeling exhausted! Breastfeeding while awake is a great opportunity for your body to rest. You can do it while you are feeding your baby. 

However, if you have difficulty breastfeeding or feel pain while pumping, see a lactation consultant. They have developed the knowledge to guide you through the stages of breastfeeding. They can also solve any problem. This allows you and your baby to have a smooth and comfortable breastfeeding experience.