One of the most iconic symbols of motherhood is a woman breastfeeding her baby. Besides providing the most important way for mothers and babies to bond, breastfeeding has far-reaching benefits for both the nursing mother and her child.

The American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists all recommend and promote breastfeeding. Unfortunately, nursing doesn’t always come easily, which is compounded by the fact that western society still often encourages artificial forms of nutrition over breastfeeding. However, simple experimentation with one of the many nursing positions can result in a comfortable solution for both the mother and baby.

Cross-Cradle Hold

One of the first positions to try is the Cross-Cradle Hold. The Mayo Clinic’s website states that this is one of the positions ideal for very young infants. The mother sits upright in a chair with armrests, and holds the baby in the crook of the arm opposite from the breast she is using, supporting the baby’s neck with that hand. The other hand can support the breast and guide the baby to it.

Cradle Hold

This position is similar to Cross-Cradle Hold, except that the baby is supported by the arm on the same side as the nursing breast.

Football Hold

For mothers recovering from C-sections, the Mayo Clinic recommends this position. The mother holds the baby at her side (the same side as the nursing breast), with the baby’s back resting on her forearm and his or her head in her palm, facing the breast. The free hand can support the breast, making this hold great for helping those newborns having trouble latching onto Mommy’s breast.

Side-Lying Hold

Of all the positions, this one may be best if the mother is very tired! It is also a good choice for women recovering from C-sections. The mother lies on one side, facing the baby towards her breast and cradling him or her with the bottom arm. With the other arm, she guides the baby’s head to her nipple. After the baby has latched on, the top arm can support the baby and the bottom arm supports the mother’s head.