Cross-Cradle or Transitional Hold

Use the cross-cradle hold to breastfeed your baby.

Illustration of the cross-cradle or transitional hold

Good if:

  • Your baby needs extra head support.
  • Your baby is premature.
  • Your baby's suck is weak. This hold may help your baby stay latched.
  • This is how you and your baby are comfortable breastfeeding.

How to:

Hold baby's head at your right breast and baby's body toward your left side. If it's more comfortable, support your arm holding the baby on a pillow across your lap. 

Gently place your left hand behind your baby's ears and neck, with your thumb and index finger behind each ear and your palm between baby's shoulder blades. Turn your baby's body toward yours so that your tummies are touching.

Hold your breast as if you are squeezing a sandwich. To protect your back, avoid leaning down to your baby. Instead, bring your baby to you.

As your baby's mouth opens, push gently with your palm that's on baby's head to help the latch. Make sure you keep your fingers out of the way.

Reverse for the left side.

Source URL: https://wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov/cross-cradle-or-transitional-hold