Recognize the Signs of Incorrect Breastfeeding Position and the Solutions for Mothers
Many new mothers think that pain or discomfort during breastfeeding is normal and will go away on its own. However, not all pain during breastfeeding is normal. One of the most common causes is an incorrect breastfeeding position, which makes it difficult for the baby to latch properly.
This condition not only causes discomfort for the mother but also risks interfering with breastfeeding and the baby’s breast milk intake. This article will discuss the signs of incorrect breastfeeding position, its impact on mothers and babies, and practical solutions that can be applied.
What Is an Incorrect Breastfeeding Position?
An incorrect breastfeeding position occurs when the baby and mother are not positioned in a way that supports effective breastfeeding. Many people think the issue lies only in the way the baby is held, but in fact, an improper breastfeeding position covers several important aspects:
1. Baby’s Head and Body Position
The baby should be aligned, meaning the head, neck, and body are straight to make swallowing easier. If the baby’s head turns away or is too far from the breast, feeding can be disrupted.
2. Nipple Position
The nipple should point toward the roof of the baby’s mouth. If it only touches the tip of the lips or rests too shallowly, the baby may struggle to suck effectively.
3. Latch Technique
A proper latch means the baby opens their mouth wide and takes in most of the areola. A shallow latch is one of the main causes of sore nipples.
4. Mother’s Posture During Breastfeeding
The mother should sit or lie comfortably with good back support and relaxed shoulders. Poor posture leads to fatigue, back pain, and reduced breastfeeding success.
Read also: Early Initiation of Breastfeeding: Benefits, Preparation & Success Tips
Signs of Incorrect Breastfeeding Position
Source: Freepik
Many mothers do not realize that discomfort during breastfeeding may signal an incorrect position. Recognizing these signs early is essential to maintain comfort and ensure effective feeding. By understanding the symptoms, mothers can make corrections before the problem worsens. Here are key signs to look for:
1. Sore or Cracked Nipples
If nipples frequently feel painful, sore, or even cracked after breastfeeding, this may indicate a shallow latch or poor head positioning. Continuous pain should not be considered normal.
2. Baby Frequently Chokes, Coughs, or Breaks Latch
Babies in the wrong position often choke, cough, or release the nipple repeatedly. This happens because the milk flow is mismatched with the baby’s sucking ability, making it harder to breathe comfortably.
3. Breast Milk Does Not Flow Optimally
An incorrect position may hinder the let-down reflex, preventing milk from flowing properly. As a result, the baby gets hungry quickly and may struggle to gain weight.
4. Breasts Feel Full or Painful After Nursing
If breasts still feel full, hard, or sore after feeding, it means milk is not being emptied completely. This condition increases the risk of engorgement and mastitis if left untreated.
5. Mother’s Back and Neck Feel Stiff
Improper posture during breastfeeding can quickly cause tension in the back, neck, or shoulders. This discomfort often affects a mother’s mood and endurance while feeding.
Read also: Can Breastfeeding Mothers Take Medicine? Here Are the Facts!
Effects of Incorrect Breastfeeding Position on Mothers and Babies
Incorrect breastfeeding not only makes feeding uncomfortable but also has real consequences for both mother and baby.
For mothers, improper positioning can trigger mastitis because of incomplete milk emptying, leading to inflamed breasts. Cracked nipples are also common due to shallow latching. In addition, poor posture often causes chronic back pain, creating frustration that may weaken the mother-baby bonding experience.
For babies, poor positioning prevents them from getting enough milk, resulting in inadequate nutrition. This can lead to slower weight gain or delayed growth.
If feeding becomes uncomfortable, babies may switch between breastfeeding methods, increasing the risk of nipple confusion and making feeding more challenging.
Read also: Complete Guide to Baby Feeding Frequency by Age
How to Correct Breastfeeding Position for Comfort and Effectiveness
Source: Freepik
Correcting breastfeeding position is crucial to ensure smooth, comfortable, and effective feeding for both mother and baby. Proper positioning helps babies get enough milk while preventing pain or injury for mothers. Here are practical tips to try:
1. Use a Nursing Pillow
A nursing pillow supports the baby’s body, keeping them at breast level so mothers don’t need to bend for long periods.
2. Keep Baby’s Head and Body Aligned
Position the baby’s head, neck, and body in a straight line to make swallowing easier. Avoid twisting the baby’s head away from the breast.
3. Tummy-to-Tummy Position
Having the baby’s tummy touch the mother’s tummy brings closeness and stability, which encourages better latching.
4. Wait for Baby to Open Mouth Wide
Ensure the baby opens their mouth wide before latching so more of the areola enters. This reduces nipple pain and helps effective feeding.
5. Avoid Leaning Forward Too Much
Leaning down for long periods strains the mother’s back, neck, and shoulders. Instead, bring the baby up to the breast, keeping the mother upright and relaxed.
Read also: Why Vitamin D Is Important for Breastfeeding Mothers
Alternatives When Direct Breastfeeding Is Difficult: Use Ergonomic Bottles
In situations where direct breastfeeding is not possible, expressing and giving breast milk through a bottle can be a practical solution. Consider the following:
1. Not All Mothers Can Breastfeed Directly
Fatigue, work demands, or medical conditions may prevent direct breastfeeding. This does not mean the quality of breast milk decreases, as long as it is given safely.
2. Feeding Expressed Breast Milk by Bottle
Properly expressed and stored breast milk still provides full nutrition. Bottle-feeding allows fathers or caregivers to actively participate in feeding.
3. Choose Ergonomic Bottles
Ergonomic bottles are easy to hold securely, reducing hand strain and keeping feeding controlled. This supports both mother and baby’s comfort.
4. Nipple Shapes Similar to the Breast Prevent Confusion
A nipple designed to resemble the breast helps babies maintain proper sucking habits. This prevents nipple confusion and makes transitioning between breast and bottle smoother.
Read also: The Correct Lying-Down Breastfeeding Position and 4 Benefits
Hegen: A Modern Breastfeeding Solution for Mothers and Babies
Today’s mothers need practical and safe breastfeeding tools. Hegen offers innovative designs that make feeding easier without sacrificing comfort.
1. Hegen Bottles Support Correct Breastfeeding Position
Their ergonomic design helps maintain proper feeding angles, ensuring babies feed naturally while mothers stay relaxed.
2. Easy to Hold, Anti-Slip, and Comfortable
Hegen bottles are anti-slip and designed to fit comfortably in hand, preventing fatigue during longer feeding sessions.
3. Breast-Like Nipples with Anti-Colic System
Hegen nipples mimic the breast shape, reducing nipple confusion. The anti-colic system minimizes swallowed air, keeping babies calmer and less gassy.
4. Multifunctional for Pumping, Storage, and Feeding
Hegen bottles can be used for pumping, storing, and feeding without transferring milk to another container, saving time and maintaining hygiene.
Read also: Can Breastfeeding Mothers Eat Instant Noodles?
Breastfeeding should be a warm, bonding experience, not a painful one. If mothers experience pain or discomfort, it may be a sign of an incorrect breastfeeding position. With small adjustments and ergonomic support tools, breastfeeding can once again be enjoyable.
Every mother deserves comfort. If you feel sore, tense, or notice your baby is fussy during feeding, support your breastfeeding journey with safe and ergonomic bottles from Hegen. Explore the full collection here and enjoy a more natural breastfeeding experience every day.
