Breastfeeding is a crucial part of a baby's growth, but it can be challenging for new mothers. The Dancer Hand Position is one of the useful techniques for successful breastfeeding. In this article, we will explore the benefits and techniques of this posture for successful breastfeeding.
What is the Dancer Hand Position in breastfeeding?
The Dancer Hand Position is a nursing technique that helps mothers hold their newborns while breastfeeding. It can be especially helpful for premature babies or those with Down syndrome.
Benefits of Dancer Hand Position:
- Helps premature babies with feeding
- Assists babies with difficulty in feeding
- Beneficial for babies with a weak gag reflex or weak muscle tone
- Helps babies who cannot eat well due to sickness
- Beneficial for babies with disabilities or cleft lip
- Effective for babies with Down syndrome
Techniques of Dancer Hand Position:
- Place a three-finger hand under the breast for support
- Press the baby's cheek with thumbs and forefinger in a U shape to hold the chin
- Keep the baby near and in the same position for better nursing
- Two-finger dancer hand position can be used for babies with weak cheek tone
- Practice the two-finger dancer hand while breastfeeding with the baby on top of the abdomen
When to Use Dancer Hand Position:
- When a baby needs assistance with feeding or has a weak gag reflex or weak muscle tone
- For babies born prematurely or with specific health conditions