Pregnancy & Baby 

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Large breasts: feeding tips

: It can sometimes be quite challenging for the large-breasted woman to find a comfortable position in which to feed. There are several that seem to work well for the nursing mother with large breasts:

• You could try feeding your little one while sitting back in a comfortable chair. Hold your baby at your side, on her back, supported to breast level. Pillows may help, but don't forget to hold your baby firmly. Support her neck and bring her to your breast. Leaning back in the chair allows your breast tissue to flatten slightly, making it easier for your baby to reach your nipple and areola. She will need to take in approximately one inch of your areola to properly suckle your milk.
• Another position, the Australian hold, can also work well. In this position, you lie on your back with your baby on top of you. This works best once your baby has good neck control.
• A large nursing pillow, or one designed for twins, can also be helpful for the large-breasted mum. Again, babies like to feel well supported. Continue to hold your baby, even when pillows provide much of the support.

To support large breasts while feeding, you could use a small, rolled-up hand towel or baby blanket, placed underneath your breast. Or you might try a soft, stretchy piece of fabric, worn around your neck and brought under one breast, gently supporting it. Stitch or tie it at one end, so it’s like a necklace.

When using your hand to support your breast, keep fingers and palm underneath, with your thumb pointing towards your armpit. Make sure that all your fingers remain away from your areola. Whatever method you choose to support your breasts, make sure that they are well supported without distorting their shape.

I hope these suggestions help.

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