Breastfeeding is still possible with hip dysplasia. Find comfortable ways to feed.
If your baby has hip dysplasia, you might wonder how breastfeeding will work. It can feel tricky at first, especially if your baby is in a brace, harness or cast.
The good news is that many mums find ways to breastfeed comfortably. It may take a bit of experimenting to find what works best for you and your baby.
What is hip dysplasia?
Hip dysplasia (developmental dysplasia of the hip or DDH) is when the ball of your baby’s hip doesn’t sit properly in the hip socket. This can make the hip joint less stable. In some babies, the hip can partly or fully slip out of the socket.
Treatment varies depending on your baby’s age and needs. Your baby may wear a brace, harness or cast to help their hips develop well.
Finding comfortable ways to feed
Holding your baby can feel different when they are wearing a brace, harness or cast. It might feel awkward at first. With time and support, you can find positions that feel more comfortable.
If your baby is in a cast, you might find it helps to use pillows or rolled towels to support their head and chest so they are raised slightly for feeds. Some babies feed well in a semi reclined or well supported position. You can also cover the cast with a towel or cloth during feeds to help keep it clean. It may take a bit of trying different positions to find what feels comfortable for you both.
Try different positions to see what suits you and your baby.
Seated straddle position
- Sit your baby upright on your knee, facing your breast.
- Support their back and shoulders
- You could use a footstool to lift your baby to breast height
This can work well, even for younger babies.
Modified cradle position
- Lie your baby across your lap. Cross your leg or use a pillow for extra support and cushioning. Ensure the harness, brace or cast doesn’t dig into you or your baby.
- Tilt your baby towards your breast and support your baby with a pillow or thick rolled-up towel or bunny rug.
Smaller babies: You can hold them across your chest with one arm between their legs and the other supporting their back
Older babies: You could support their legs with your arm or between your knees if that feels comfortable
Football hold
Some mums find this position works well.
- Place your baby beside you rather than across your body
- Use pillows to support their head and body
- A wedge or firm cushion can help tilt your baby towards your breast
Lying down
Feeding lying down can feel more relaxed and take pressure off your body.
You could try:
- leaning back with your baby resting on your chest
- lying on your side with your baby facing you
- lying on your side with your baby on their back, turned towards your breast
Take your time to find what feels easiest and most comfortable.
Looking after your body
A brace, harness or cast can feel heavy or awkward. It’s important to look after your own comfort too. You might find it helps to:
- Use pillows or rolled towels to support your arms, back and baby
- Place padding between you and your baby if anything feels hard or pressing in
- Sit in a wide chair or on a couch where there’s more space
- Check in with your posture so your neck and back feel supported
Using a carrier
Some mums find it helpful to use a baby carrier for feeding or moving around.
- Front or back carriers may feel easier with a brace or cast
- A folded wrap between you and your baby can add comfort
- Side and shoulder slings that don’t support your baby’s bottom well may not be safe.
If you’re unsure, you could check with your baby’s physiotherapist or health professional.
Looking after yourself and finding support
Breastfeeding with hip dysplasia can feel challenging at times. You’re not alone. Many mums find it takes a bit of time to work out what feels comfortable for them and their baby.
If something doesn’t feel right or isn’t working well, you could reach out for support from an ABA volunteer, your health professional, or your baby’s care team.
You might also find it helpful to connect with other families who have been through a similar experience. Organisations such as Healthy Hips Australia offer information and peer support for parents of children with hip dysplasia. Hearing from others can feel reassuring and give you practical ideas to try.
© Australian Breastfeeding Association May 2026
