Breastfeeding lying down is often touted as the promised land of nursing positions, but it?s not the easiest one for some new moms. Still, it?s worth trying, as it can help make breastfeeding more comfortable for you and your baby.
Wondering how to get it right" A couple of lactation consultants who have helped many parents master this position share their best tips.
What is the side-lying position used for"
Ask anyone who has mastered breastfeeding lying down and they?ll say the biggest benefit is that it helps sleep-deprived new moms get more rest by lying down for some of their baby?s feedings. ?It?s really relaxing,? says Dallas Parsons, an international board-certified lactation consultant based in South Surrey, BC. It?s also less disruptive to your sleep if you?re able to pull your baby into bed rather than sit up to nurse them. But aside from helping parents feel more rested (no small feat!), breastfeeding lying down can be useful if your perineum was damaged during your baby?s birth, as sitting on your sitz bones to nurse can be painful, says Taya Griffin, an international board-certified lactation consultant based in Toronto. There are other postnatal circumstances that this position can be handy for as well. Griffin explains that one of her clients was unable to sit up without vomiting because of an epidural headache, while another one had postpartum depression and stayed in bed. In both cases, the side-lying position was a lifesaver.
In addition to bei...