108 Breastfeeding
➤ Do not pinch the
nipple when giving
the breast to the
baby.
How to hold the baby
When breastfeeding, it is important to hold the baby so it
can suckle and swallow easily. The mother should also be in a
relaxed, comfortable position so that her milk can flow well.
Support the baby’s head with your hand or arm. Its head
and body should be in a straight line. Wait until its mouth
is open wide. Bring the baby close to the breast and tickle
its lower lip with the nipple. Then move the baby onto your
breast. The baby should have a big mouthful of the breast,
with the nipple deep inside its mouth.
This baby has a good
mouthful of breast.
Chest to chest, chin to breast.
The mother’s
back is straight.
The baby’s head is
suppported and in a
straight line with the
rest of his body.
This baby does not have
enough breast in its mouth.
The baby suckles
the breast, not just
the nipple.
With a newborn, the
mother’s hand should
cover the baby’s bottom.
The baby’s body is
straight and turned
toward the mother’s.
This is another good position
any woman can use. Use
pillows or some rolled up
cloth under the baby.
If you are having trouble breastfeeding, get help from a
woman who has experience. She can often help more than
some health workers. Do not use a bottle. It will teach the
baby a different kind of sucking. Keep trying. Sometimes it
takes practice for you to find good positions for your baby,
or for a baby to learn to suckle well.
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