The Upright Cradle Hold is a gentle twist on the familiar cradle hold, designed to enhance the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. This breastfeeding position is great as your baby grows because it allows you to rest your baby's weight on your lap.
How To Do The Upright Cradle Hold
In this Upright Cradle positioning, your baby will be cradled in one arm with their head rested in the nook of your elbow. With your baby in an upright position, they will rest their bum on your leg.
Step-by-Step
- Find a Comfortable Seat: Select a chair or cushioned surface that provides ample back support. Ensure your situated and have stability to create a foundation for a relaxed breastfeeding session.
- Position Your Baby: Cradle your little one on one side, aligning their body with the breast you'll be feeding from. The baby's buttocks should rest comfortably on your lap, establishing a secure and snug hold.
- Support Your Baby: Gently use one arm to support your baby's back and head. This supportive embrace not only ensures your baby feels secure but also allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable feeding experience.
- Guide to Latch: Before guiding your baby to latch onto the breast, ensure their mouth is wide open. Encourage a deep latch for effective breastfeeding, promoting a comfortable and fulfilling feeding session for both mother and baby.
Pros and Cons of Upright Cradle Hold
Each breastfeeding position has a unique blend of advantages and disadvantages. The Upright Cradle Hold is a very comfortable position, but it might not always be the best choice for you.
Pros
- Distributes Baby's Weight: By balancing the load, it alleviates strain on one arm, fostering a more comfortable and sustainable breastfeeding experience for mom.
- Aid In Digestion for Baby: The upright angle can help minimize reflux issues and contribute to smoother digestion, providing added comfort to the little one during and after feeding.
- Enhances Bonding: The face-to-face contact facilitated by the Upright Cradle Hold creates a conducive environment for emotional connection and bonding between mother and baby. The eye contact and proximity deepen the sense of security and trust during breastfeeding sessions.
Cons
- Requires A Seated Position For Mom: Because your baby sits on your lap, this position requires you to remain seated. That limits the instances of when this position is possible.
- Takes Practice: Both mother and baby may need time to adjust to the nuances of this position, and patience is key as you navigate this learning curve.
When To Use
This nurturing position is particularly well-suited for calm and alert babies during breastfeeding sessions. The serenity of this hold, with the baby's buttocks comfortably cradled on the mother's lap, aligns seamlessly with moments of tranquility, enhancing the overall sense of peace during feeding.
The Upright Cradle Hold proves to be a valuable ally for mothers with babies who experience reflux or digestion issues. The upright posture can aid in minimizing reflux concerns, offering relief to both the baby and the mother.
By strategically incorporating the Upright Cradle Hold into your breastfeeding routine during these moments, you create a comforting space that addresses specific needs, promoting a harmonious and enjoyable breastfeeding experience.
Alternative Positions
While the Upright Cradle Hold offers a delightful departure from the conventional, it's always beneficial to have a repertoire of breastfeeding positions to cater to the unique needs of both mother and baby. There are a few alternative positions that complement the Upright Cradle Hold, adding versatility and adaptability to your breastfeeding toolkit.
- Upright Football Hold: In the Upright Football Hold, the baby's legs are tucked under the mother's arm, creating a secure and cozy embrace. This variation combines the benefits of an upright position with a slight football hold angle, providing an alternative that might suit different comfort preferences.
- Koala Hold: For a more forward-facing approach, the Koala Hold positions the baby upright, facing forward, and supported by both of the mother's arms. This position not only allows for eye contact but also gives the baby a unique vantage point, fostering engagement during feeding.
- Cradle Hold: Returning to a classic, the Cradle Hold remains a timeless and popular breastfeeding position. With the baby cradled in the mother's arms, this traditional pose provides a sense of familiarity and comfort, making it an excellent choice for many mothers and babies.
My Experience With The Upright Cradle Hold
The Upright Cradle Hold has become the favorite breastfeeding position for me and my baby, especially as my little one started getting a bit too hefty for the traditional holds. When she became too heavy to support with just my arms, and too big to comfortably fit on the nursing support pillow, the upright cradle hold became our go-to position.
What I love most about it is the natural feel it has for both me and my baby. The position allows me to cradle her on one side, with her cute little bottom resting comfortably on my lap.
As she's grown, I've found that the Upright Cradle Hold gives me the perfect balance of closeness and support. I can hold her close to me, ensuring her head and neck get the support they need, while also having a free hand to support my breast.
One of the magical moments is when I look down and catch her gazing up at me with those big blue eyes. It reminds me that breastfeeding is not just about feeding; it's about creating a bond.
Final Thoughts
The Upright Cradle Hold is a great alternative to the traditional cradle hold as your baby gets bigger. The ability to balance your baby's weight on your lap can lead to a more comfortable breastfeeding experience for you and your baby.
Consider adding this position to your breastfeeding routine when your baby is calm and alert in order to enhance the bonding experience of breastfeeding.
