Football hold

Skip Navigation

In the football hold, you sit on a bed or sofa. Your baby is tucked under your arm and lying along the side you will be feeding on. You can use pillows to help support the baby and your arms. The baby's head is in your hand (on the same side as the breast being used), and the baby's upper body is supported by your arm. With that hand you can control the baby's head to bring the baby's mouth in quickly for a good latch. Your other hand reaches across to support and narrow your breast.

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.