Improving Latch By Improving Positioning: Side Lying (Part 6 of 7)

From SantaBarbaraLactation.com: This is the sixth in a series of videos describing how effective positioning promotes effective latching. In this video I describe the basics of latch and how to position a baby in the side lying position. The goal with any position is the get the nipple far back and to the roof of the baby's mouth. The baby's tongue must also be able to extend and cup the breast.
The most important aspects of an effective latch are:
The baby has full tummy contact with the mother's body.
The baby feels stable.
The baby's head is aligned with his spine, not turned or tilted to the right or left.
The baby reaches up to take the breast.
The baby is in a good drinking position with 2 finger-widths between the chin and chest.

[@celestecouncil1864]

So grateful for your videos!

[@elrehnna02]

This would be much more helpful if you showed how to position an actual baby in this way.. since you can't just move a baby by their head lol

[@jjeenniis]

What if mom falls asleep in this position and rolls over on top of her baby? Is this position risky?

[@nyakanyasko]

Unlikely if she's lying on her side with a pillow between her knees. It takes effort to roll into baby in this position. You can research more about safe sleep. La Leche League has a whole book about it that helps you determine if cosleeping is likely to be appropriate for you and your baby. For example, it's not considered safe for premature babies or babies with heart conditions and other medical problems. It's not safe for babies whose mothers smoked during pregnancy. There are other risk factors... The book goes into great detail. The truth is (and you can read Dr Kathleen Kendall Tackett for this) is that breastfeeding mothers tend to fall asleep with their babies sometimes. This is very unsafe in a recliner or on a sofa. It is much safer in a bed that has been made as safe as possible... No big blankets or pillows, no way for baby to fall or get wedged. I hope that helps!

[@shannonhigh9623]

@@nyakanyasko I actually was sent a link to co sleeping from La Leche League by my LC. Very helpful info. I was fearful to try but last night we did co-sleep and I felt it was more restful. Now to master side lying feeding