Hands-off

Babies have wonderful reflexes in place to help them breastfeed. One is referred to as the "rooting reflex".

When we think of the natural carrying position of young primates on their mother's chest, gripping on to her body hair with hands and feet as she moves about, being able to find the breast by facial touch makes sense. A baby swiping their face backwards and forwards across the chest area would be able to zero in on the nipple area which would feel different to the surrounding skin.

The "rooting reflex" works best when are no false signals from other touch. A hand supporting the head, clothing tickling the face or fingers brushing a cheek will all trigger the baby to focus in that direction. Confusing for baby and frustrating for mum. Waving the nipple around like a moving target will also confuse them.

To support your baby in naturally seeking the nipple, focus on supporting their body close to yours without holding the head. Make sure bra straps, clothing etc is clear of the breast (strip down when you are at home) and remove all blankets, wraps and mittens. Babies hands help guide them. Allow your baby to brush their face against you. Keep your breast in a natural resting position and don't "chase" the mouth with it.

The touch of breast tissue on their face will trigger them to open their mouth wide and start bobbing in the nipple area, seeking just the right spot. This takes practice and they may go on poorly. You can detach them gently and they will try again.

Supporting babies by holding their heads doesn't help them. They might push back, twist in reaction to your touch or present to the breast in a poor position, withtheirchin tuckeddown. .

If your support people suggest or demonstrate head holding, be aware this is an out-dated approach from the past.

Baby-led Attachment allows your baby to follow their instincts and use their natural reflexes to breastfeed.