10/27/2020
Excellent info for mamas with forceful letdowns like I had! I didn’t know there was a name for it but this is one of my favourite positions to breastfeed in. Have you tried it?
Have you tried the koala hold breastfeeding position?
The koala hold is a lesser known breastfeeding position that may be helpful with forceful letdown and for babies with reflux or muscle tension, healing from tongue tie revision, or tend to cough and sputter. This hold can also facilitate a more laid back breastfeeding position which may help deepen the latch and manage forceful milk flow. It can also be useful in changing positions to effectively drain a clogged duct.
(Love TLB? Get more here: https://bit.ly/300FPrL)
To do the koala hold, sit in a supportive chair or on a bed with ample pillow support and sit baby on your lap with them straddling you or with their legs crossed or “froggy style” (depends on the baby's preference and size). You may want a little support under their bum (pictured here with a rolled up Goosewaddle swaddle blanket). With the baby facing you supporting them at the back of the neck allowing the freedom of mobility to tilt their head, bare the breast, and support the breast with the other hand. Aim the ni**le toward the nose and gently bring the baby to the breast. Tickle their top lip with the ni**le the encourage them to tilt their head back and open wide. When their mouth is wide open, bring them into the breast for them to take in as much of the ar**la and breast tissue as possible. If desired, lean back or slide down for a more laid back breastfeeding position.
For those with arm, back, neck, or nerve pain or strain, the koala position may be a supportive position that provides relief and eases discomfort.
Depending on the baby, the koala hold can work from newborn on up. It is pictured here with a 4 week old.
Photo by Meghann Street Photography.
Did you learn something? Was it helpful? Consider giving back and help us continue.
The Leaky B**b provides free support for millions on their baby feeding journey and we depend on your support to do so. If you believe that the resource we provide is important and valuable, please back The Leaky B**b for as little as a cup of coffee a month and be a part of helping families feed their babies, normalize breastfeeding, and find information, support, and community when you join our Patreon: https://bit.ly/300FPrL
