The Best Breastfeeding Positions for Mom and Baby

The Cradle

Few moms think breastfeeding will come naturally -- and they get put to the test in those first days and weeks. "It's supposed to be the most beautiful time in your life, yet you're full of insecurities, not knowing if you're doing it right," says Irene Zoppi, RN, a certified lactation consultant outside Boston and a clinical education specialist with Medela. Moms who choose the bottle have questions too. But relax -- feeding your baby is a process you'll soon master. In time, you'll both fall into a rhythm.

The Cradle

Sit with baby lengthwise across your abdomen with your elbow supporting his head and your hand supporting his bottom. Your other hand supports the breast.

• Who likes it? This is a common position for older babies who can easily latch. But Margaret Bauer, of Keller, Texas, used it to nurse her daughter Hailey. "She was so small, and it just felt comfortable to me," Bauer says. Note: it's a little harder to control baby's head when nursing in this position.