Cradle hold
Classic — baby's head in the crook of your elbow.
Latching guide
Finding your rhythm together.
A deep latch is comfortable. If it hurts, gently break the seal with your pinky and try again.
Various positions to try
Cross-cradle
Great for tiny newborns learning the latch.
Football hold
Wonderful after a C-section or for twins.
Side-lying
For night feeds and rest.
Laid-back nursing
Lean back, baby on your chest — instinctive.
Double cradle
Tandem feed twins, cradled across a pillow.
Twins cross + football
One twin cross-cradle, one tucked under the arm.
Signs of a good latch
- Mouth opens wide, like a yawn
- Lips flange outward (fish lips)
- Chin touches the breast, nose is clear
- More areola visible above the top lip than below
- Slow, rhythmic swallowing — no clicking sounds
- Feeding is comfortable, not pinching
Signs baby needs adjustment
- Sharp or pinching pain that doesn't ease
- Clicking or smacking sounds while nursing
- Lips tucked inward instead of flanged
- Dimpled cheeks during sucking
- Baby slides off quickly or seems frustrated
When to seek help
Reach out to a lactation consultant for cracked nipples, persistent pain, poor weight gain, or if feeding feels overwhelming. You don't have to figure this out alone.