Football Hold

General:

Football hold is one of the two most common breastfeeding positions. Football hold was given the name due to the position of the baby, tucked under your armpit while being supported with your hand under the baby's head, with feet extending towards the mother's back and the head level with the breast, looking much like a football player who is carrying the ball while running. A pillow can be placed under the baby for more support.

Football hold is used most often by mothers who have larger breasts as it gives her more flexibility in determining where the baby's mouth is located. Cradle hold can sometimes be harder for these mothers to maneuver.

Football hold is also commonly used by mothers who have had a cesarean in order to prevent the newborn from lying directly on the scar area.