Breastfeeding while babywearing is both an art and a lifesaver. If you’re one of the talented moms who already knows who to do this, congrats! Your breastfeeding life is likely so much easier because of it. For those of you who want to learn how to breastfeed your baby while walking around (hands free, no less!), then read on.
Babywearing is super beneficial for both babies and breastfeeding moms. The skin-to-skin contact and closeness between baby and mom produces more of the prolactin hormone, which helps to facilitate lactation. It’s been proven that babywearing significantly improves breastfeeding rates for this reason. To take it a step further, being able to breastfeed WHILE babywearing is not only ideal for your baby, who is already tucked snugly against your body, but it’s also ideal for you, as you can breastfeed discreetly while on the move.
So how exactly does one breastfeed while wearing a Moby wrap? Follow these 6 easy steps:
1. Put your baby in the Moby wrap easy hold as you normally would.
2. Loosen the fabric around your waist a little bit, and then slide the fabric loops over to the left if you intend to breastfeed on the right breast (switch sides if breastfeeding on the left breast).
3. Adjust baby by sliding his hips over the left to get him in a nursing position.
4. Cradle your baby’s neck while lifting the fabric over his head and toward the center of your chest, and lower his head to your breast. At this point, baby should be in a good nursing position.
5. Bring your nipple to your baby’s mouth so he can latch easily.
6. Once baby is latched, you can slide the fabric back under his head for support, as long as you can still see his nose and mouth.
For a video tutorial, see the below helpful video on how to breastfeed while wearing the Moby wrap easy hold:
A few tips:
--Practices makes perfect – it may take a few tries for you and baby to get the hang of this. Keep trying!
--Try out different wraps or carriers if the one you’re using isn’t working for you.
--Practice at home or someplace where you’re comfortable, while both you and baby are calm.
--It’s easier to stand up and breastfeed while babywearing than to sit down.
--Wear a shirt that can unbutton or be pulled down from the top instead of the bottom.
--If you’ve tried a few times and it doesn’t work for you, try again in a few months.
Good luck!
About Katie Stansberry
Katie Stansberry is a work-from-home mom of two sweet girls and the creator of Breastfeeding Bliss. After struggling at the beginning of her breastfeeding journey, she wanted to create a happy place where breastfeeding moms could find practical tips, positive inspiration, and the newest and best breastfeeding products. On her "Back to Bliss" breastfeeding blog, she shares her personal stories and tips for making breastfeeding an easier and more enjoyable experience.
