Sad to say, I haven’t slept through the night in at least 7 years. I’ve learned to wear certain clothing and position my body in certain ways, so that our child can nurse without waking me.
I find myself staying in sleep positions much longer than I would have liked because I’m afraid to move in fear of interrupting her, waking her and having to lull her back to sleep. This makes me stiff and willing to explore other positions I would not have necessarily tried if I did not have a night nurser.
Here are those positions — in order of comfortability.
1. Right Side
This is my most preferred sleeping position. Our toddler cuddles next to me on her side and usually falls asleep.
2. Left Side
Switching to my left side gives me relief from laying on my right side. Similar to the right, she too lays on her side to nurse.
3. On Stomach
This is the easier way our toddler can access both breasts. She switches between the two breasts when one empties or when she wants to pump the milk. In this position, she lays on her back underneath my body. It can be challenging, but I’ve found a way to make it comfortable for the both of us, by stretching my underarm for support.
4. On The Back
Sleeping on my back is the most uncomfortable. I sometimes use this if I am reading at night and want relieve from my sides. My breasts are small, so it also requires having our huge toddler lay with her stomach on me and across me when she wants to access the other breast.
Have you found new ways to sleep while nursing your toddler? Which position is most comfortable to you? Have you tried one that I have not listed?
If you are still night nursing your child, please share your routine below. You can also email me any questions you have about breastfeeding at night.
Until next time.
Peace & Love,
Dominique
More breastfeeding posts you may love…