The Position of the Baby for Breastfeeding and Its Influence on Swallowing

The Link Between Breastfeeding Position and Swallowing

It is very important to respect the baby's swallowing physiology so that they can suck and swallow optimally. This is why, during my consultations, I spend a lot of time talking to mothers about the position of the baby for breastfeeding and the mechanisms of swallowing and sucking. A better understanding of these elements allows them to understand why the position of the baby at the breast is so important.

See by yourself

• Take a glass filled with water.

• Take a sip of water and try to swallow it with your chin on your sternum.

• Do the same with your head slightly back, your neck in extension.

• Then try to open your mouth and pull your tongue out with your chin on your sternum.

• Do the same again with your head slightly back, your neck in extension.

• The result of this exercise is that it is easier to pull the tongue and swallow when your head is tilted slightly back.

The Position of the Baby's Head at the Breast

As you can see, in order to effectively draw milk from the mammary gland without getting tired and swallow it, the baby must have its neck in extension.

To check that their neck and head are correctly positioned at the breast, here are 4 landmarks:

• The baby's chin sinks into the mother's breast

• The lower part of the areola is invisible while the upper part is slightly visible

• The baby's nose is clear of the mother's breast

• You should be able to draw a straight line between the baby's shoulder blades and the line of their buttocks

The Consequences of a Poorly Positioned Baby

A poorly positioned baby at the breast will fall asleep more easily because the energy required to draw milk is too great for them. They will also tend to pinch your nipple and hurt you. Since they will have difficulty emptying your breasts properly, their weight gain may be more difficult. A mammary gland that is not emptied properly will send a signal to the brain that milk production needs to be slowed down, which will result in a decrease in milk production for the mother.

Successful breastfeeding therefore really depends on the position of the baby at the breast.

I hope this translation is helpful. Please let me know if you have any questions.