Finding the right breastfeeding position can make your experience entirely different. It can decrease nipple pain and allow you to feed your baby most comfortably. You should give the Australian breastfeeding hold a try!
I’ve tried all of the breastfeeding holds, and I can tell you that they do make a difference. You might know the Australian hold by other names – saddle hold or the koala hold.
This hold isn’t the typical one that your lactation consultant might recommend trying or is as popular as the likes of side-lying, laid-back, cradle hold, or football hold. It tends to be better for older babies, but it can be used for newborns if you can do it appropriately.
Check it out; it might become a favorite for you and your baby.
How to Do The Australian Hold
This hold is different than most ones. Here’s what you need to do.
Your baby will straddle your thigh, facing toward your breast vertically. Your knee and leg support your baby’s bottom, while your one hand, depending on the side you are breastfeeding, is on your baby’s head or neck. Your hand will help your baby latch onto your breast. Use your other hand to support and cup your breast, which helps your baby get the right latch on your breast.
As your baby grows, you can sit on your lap and nurse. They won’t need your hand to help hold your breast, nor will your hand support their head or neck.
Is The Australian Hold Appropriate for All Babies?
While you can use the saddle hold for all babies, it is best for older babies. It can be difficult for babies to reach your breast without a pad or folded blanket underneath their bottoms.
Also, older babies and toddlers have neck and head control. You won’t need to hold your child’s head the entire time they’re nursing. Plus, when your child is older, feeding in public can be more discreet.
The koala hold is also excellent for babies or toddlers who suffer from acid reflux or ear infections. Both of those problems can make it uncomfortable to lay flat or downwards. If your baby has a tongue tie or low muscle, you should try the Australian hold nursing.
How to Use Australian Hold With a Newborn
If you try this hold with a newborn baby, you will notice that you end up without free hands. One hand needs to support your baby’s head, and the other hand needs to support your breast.
This can be uncomfortable for long periods, but you can use the same hold in a recliner with your feet up. Then, your back can lean against the recliner. You do need to sit up as straight as possible in the recliner to be sure your baby’s nose isn’t pressed against your breast too firmly.
Final Thoughts
When you’re searching for the right breastfeeding hold, don’t forget to try the Australian hold. It’s an upright feeding position ideal for older babies or those with acid reflux and ear infections. Your baby might love it.
Hey, this is Linda. My biggest accomplishment in life is being a mother of four children. Their current ages range from almost ten years old down to 20 months old.
I’m passionate about writing parenting articles because I understand so well all of the problems and trials you face as a parent. From breastfeeding woes to budgeting problems and behavior problems, along with everything in between, chances are I’ve faced it over the last ten years. Read more about Linda here.
