• Cradle hold: This is one of the most common breastfeeding positions. The baby is held in the crook of the mother's arm with their head resting in the mother's hand. It is used fo early breastfeeding since this is the time the baby is trying to breastfeed, it is a very comfortable and familiar position for newborns. Since the baby is in the mother’s hold, latching becomes easier, offers support to the baby’s head for comfortable feeding. 

• Cross-cradle hold: This is similar to the cradle hold, but the baby is held in the opposite arm. This position is often used when a baby is first learning to breastfeed. It is also a helpful position for the mother when she wants to achieve a comfortable latching position as the mother has more control over the baby’s head and makes it easier for the baby to maintain a deep latch, it supports the baby’s head and provides comfort to the mother.

• Football hold: This position is used when a baby has a
  difficult time latching or when the mother has had a C-section. The baby is held under the arm with their head facing the breast. The football hold offers even more support for the baby’s head when there are latching problems. It is worth mentioning that this position is helpful for c-section mothers who want least pressure on their abdomen, since they have recently had an incision. For a woman, who has large or heavy breasts, this hold can provide good support for the baby’s body as it allows a clear position to be built between the breast and the baby’s suckle point.

• Side-lying position: This position is used when a mother is lying down and the baby is positioned beside her. This position can be helpful for nighttime feedings or for mothers who have had a C-section. This is excellent for night-time feedings, C-section recovery (doesn’t put pressure on incision site) and puts reduced strain on the mother while promoting milk flow.

• Reclining position: This position is used when the mother is sitting in a reclining chair or lying down. The baby is positioned on their side with their mouth level with the nipple. This position is very helpful for a mother when she wants to relax, it reduces the strain on the breasts, increases milk flow and eases swallowing for the baby.

It is important to find a breastfeeding position that is comfortable for both the mother and the baby, as well as one that allows for a good latch and effective milk transfer. A lactation consultant can be a valuable resource for finding the best position for you and your baby.