The C-hold during breastfeeding is a simple hand position that can make it easier for your baby to get a large and deep latch. It can be particularly helpful at the beginning, when you are both still practicing, or if the breast feels full and firm. Dear, remember that breastfeeding is a skill you learn together. It is completely okay if it takes a little time and calm.
What is the C-hold during breastfeeding?
The C-hold is a way to support the breast with your hand. You shape your hand into a C around the breast, so your thumb rests on top of the breast while the other fingers support underneath. The hold can give you calm control over the breast while baby latches.
The purpose is not to squeeze the milk out or control the entire breastfeeding session with your hand. The C-hold is used primarily to make it easier for baby to get a good latch and keep the breast stable while you settle in.
How to do the C-hold step by step
Find a position where you are sitting or lying comfortably. Feel free to use pillows behind your back, arms, or baby, so your shoulders can relax. When you are well supported, you can more easily be present in the moment.
- Wash your hands, and hold baby close to you, tummy to tummy.
- Support the breast with your hand in a C. Let your thumb rest on top of the breast and your fingers support underneath.
- Keep your fingers a little behind the dark skin around the nipple, so they do not get in the way of baby's mouth.
- Let baby's nose be out by the nipple. Wait for the mouth to open wide.
- Bring baby to the breast with the chin first. It is baby who should go to the breast, not the breast that should be pushed into baby's mouth.
- Possibly keep the C-hold until baby is sucking calmly and deeply. Gradually release if it feels comfortable and baby continues to have a good latch.
How does a good latch feel?
When baby has a good latch, it should feel like a firm pull, but not like a sharp, squeezing, or persistent discomfort. You will often be able to see that baby's lips are turned outward, and that the chin has good contact with the breast. Baby's cheeks typically look round under the latch, and after a little while, you can hear or see signs that baby is swallowing.
It does not have to be perfect on the first try. If it feels uncomfortable, or if the nipple looks flat, squeezed, or crooked after breastfeeding, you can gently break the vacuum with a clean finger in baby's corner of the mouth and try again. A small adjustment can make a big difference.
When can the C-hold be particularly helpful?
You do not need to use the C-hold at every breastfeeding session. Some use it only at the beginning, while others benefit from it throughout the entire feeding. It depends on you, your breast, and your baby's way of latching.
- When you and baby are learning breastfeeding.
- If the breast is very full, and baby has difficulty getting a deep latch.
- If you have larger breasts and would like to support the breast a little during breastfeeding.
- If baby slips out into a shallower latch.
- If you need a little more overview while helping baby to the breast.
Avoid squeezing too close to the nipple
The most important thing about the C-hold is that your hand supports without getting too close to the nipple and the area right around it. If you hold where baby is supposed to have their mouth, it can make it harder to get a large mouthful of breast in.
Also try to avoid pressing the breast down toward baby's nose. Baby should have a free nose and be able to lie close to you with head, neck, and body in a calm line. Small adjustments of your own position or a pillow under baby can often be more helpful than tensing your hand and shoulders.
What if the C-hold does not help?
If breastfeeding continues to feel uncomfortable, if baby often lets go of the breast, or if you are unsure if baby is getting enough, feel free to seek advice and guidance.
You do not have to handle it all alone. It is caring to reach out, and often small changes can create more calm for both you and baby.
Frequently asked questions
Should I always use the C-hold during breastfeeding?
No. The C-hold is a tool you can use when it helps you and baby. Many use it mostly in the first period or at certain breastfeeding sessions.
Is the C-hold the same as pressing on the breast?
No. The C-hold is about gentle support and making it easier for baby to get a deep latch. The hold should not feel hard or uncomfortable.
What do I do if it feels uncomfortable when baby latches?
Gently break the vacuum with a finger in baby's corner of the mouth, and try again with baby closer to you.
Can the C-hold be used in all breastfeeding positions?
Yes, it can often be used both sitting, leaning back, and lying down, if you have a free hand to support the breast. Choose the position where you and baby can relax as much as possible.