Consider the following checklist on breastfeeding positions:

   * Mom’s spine is straight, not leaning back or bent forward

    * Baby is brought to breast for latching, not breast to baby

    * Mom’s shoulder’s are relaxed and down, not up around the ears

    * Mom and baby are tummy to tummy with baby’s ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line

    * Baby’s mouth is at nipple level

    * Mom's "same-side" hand is supporting the breast with fingers not touching the areola

    * Mom has control of babe’s head with hand opposite the nursing breast

    * Baby’s whole body is supported (firm pillows are helpful)

    * When latched, baby’s nose and chin are touching breast

    * Baby has a good portion of the areola in mouth (depending upon areola size)

    * Baby’s lips are flanged out, not tucked in

Renee Christine Mandala, M.A. CD (DONA) is a Certified Birth and Postpartum doula. She holds a Master's Degree in Spiritual Psychology with an emphasis in Consciousness, Health & Healing. Renee provides heart-centered care through the transformational journey of birth and early parenthood. She is currently undergoing cerification with the UCLA Lactation Educator Program.