If you’ve had a c-section, positioning can be one of the biggest challenges while breastfeeding. The rugby hold, also known as the underarm hold, is a great choice for c-section recovery as it keeps your baby’s weight off your abdomen, giving you a break from the discomfort in your surgical area.

To get into the rugby hold, sit up comfortably and place your baby beside you, with their head level with your breast. Support your baby’s head with one open hand while their back rests along your forearm. With your elbow bent, your baby’s body will rest on your forearm, keeping their weight off your abdomen. This position is not only ideal for c-section recovery but also works well for mothers with larger breasts, as it gives them better control of the baby's latch.

The koala hold is a great breastfeeding position for babies who suffer from reflux or ear infections, as it allows the baby to be positioned upright while feeding. This position may also be helpful for babies with low muscle tone or tongue-tie.

To achieve the koala hold, sit in a chair or on the bed with sufficient support for your back. Place your baby so they are straddling your thigh or resting on your hip, with their spine and head upright as they latch onto your breast. Your baby will naturally be inclined to stay in a vertical position, which can help alleviate reflux and ear pressure. The koala hold also allows for excellent eye contact and bonding, making it a great position for emotional connection while feeding.

As your baby grows, their needs during breastfeeding change. The side support position is a great option for larger babies or older toddlers who may need more room and support as they breastfeed. It’s also a great position for warmer weather or when you want to enjoy skin-to-skin contact during feeding.

To get into the side support position, lie down on your side, supporting your back with your breastfeeding pillow. You can hold your baby in a side-lying position as they latch onto the breast. This position provides support for both you and your baby without requiring you to hold up the baby's weight with your arms. For extra comfort, the New Moon Pregnancy & Nursing Pillow can help maintain alignment and prevent strain on your body. It’s a fantastic way to feed in a more relaxed, natural position while giving your arms a break.

The cradle hold is perhaps the most traditional and widely used breastfeeding position. It is an easy position to learn and is often the first position many mothers try when beginning to breastfeed. The cradle hold is perfect for when you're just getting started and need a position that gives you easy visibility of your nipple and your baby’s mouth for proper latching.

To position yourself for the cradle hold, sit up straight and cradle your baby’s head in the crook of your arm. Your baby's body should be turned towards you, with their belly resting against yours. With the New Moon breastfeeding pillow, you can prop yourself up comfortably and free up your hands, allowing you to support your baby’s head while maintaining a relaxed posture. The pillow also provides extra support for your baby, ensuring that their head is positioned correctly for latching.

The laid-back breastfeeding position is an incredibly natural and intuitive way to nurse your baby. This position allows your baby to be placed on your chest in a relaxed, almost reclining position, which is perfect for promoting bonding and encouraging your baby’s natural instincts.

To achieve the laid-back position, recline comfortably in a chair or on a bed, propped up by your New Moon Pregnancy & Nursing Pillow. Place your baby on your chest, allowing them to naturally search for the breast. This position encourages your baby’s reflexes, such as rooting (looking for the breast) and later head bobbing, which are critical for early development. Many mothers find the laid-back position especially relaxing, as it allows both you and your baby to unwind and enjoy skin-to-skin contact while breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding can be a complex experience, and the right support is essential for both mother and baby. By using a versatile breastfeeding pillow like the New Moon Pregnancy & Nursing Pillow, you can experiment with different positions that will make your breastfeeding journey more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable. From recovery positions after a c-section to skin-to-skin bonding, there are a variety of holds to try that will help you navigate the challenges of breastfeeding with ease.

Remember that breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby, and finding the best position that works for both of you can take some time. But with the right tools and support, you’ll be able to make the experience much more enjoyable. If you’re just starting out or looking for ways to make your breastfeeding sessions more comfortable, consider giving these positions a try with the New Moon pillow—your body and your baby will thank you!