Breastfeeding with large breasts

Some mums with larger breasts find positioning and attaching their baby a bit of a challenge at times. Here are some ideas you could try. See what works best for you.  

• The cradle hold, football hold or lying back positions might be helpful.
• Supporting your breast with a pillow or using a rolled-up cloth nappy or bunny rug under your breast, can lift it so you can see your baby’s latch more easily.   
• Lifting your breast can also help keep it away from your baby's nose, so they can breathe and swallow comfortably.  
• Some mums don't need a pillow. Larger breasts mean you can hold your baby lower with their weight supported by your lap.
• Let your breast fall naturally (rather than hold it or prop it up). Then bring your baby to your breast, rather than moving your breast to your baby. 

You can watch a video with Dr Theresa Nesbitt and Nancy Morhbacher IBCLC showing feeding positions that may work for mums with larger breasts.  

• If your baby is attached well to the breast, their chin will touch your breast and their nose will be clear. You shouldn’t need to press your finger into your breast for your baby to breathe.

• If you’re supporting your breast as your baby attaches, try to keep your baby and your breast at the same level. 

• If you let your breast go, its weight may pull some of it out of your baby's mouth which can be uncomfortable and may cause nipple damage.

• You could try shaping your breast with your hand to help your baby get a good mouthful of breast tissue. Be careful to shape your breast in a way that makes it easier, not harder, for your baby to attach. Hold your breast in the same way as you’d hold a sandwich, so your baby can take a good mouthful. 

• If you are shaping your breast, do it gently. Try not to press or squeeze your breast. And keep your fingers away from your areola and your baby's mouth.    

• If you can't see your nipples, try breastfeeding in front of a mirror 
   

Large breasts can feel hot, sweaty and heavy. Here are some tips mums have found helpful: 

• Getting fitted for a maternity bra can help with comfort.
• Lying down to feed may be easier.
• In hot weather, feeding on your side can help keep your baby a little distance from your body.
• Feeding with your baby lying on your lap, rather than supporting their weight in your arms, can be more comfortable. 

Under Australian law, you’re allowed to breastfeed in public anywhere, any time. Feeding in public can seem daunting while you're learning and you might feel self-conscious about your breasts.  

Some things that might help:

• Wear clothes that make it easy for your baby to access your breast.  
• Position your pram so you can rest your feet and create a bit more privacy.  
• Use a scarf or bunny rug to cover your shoulders and upper chest if you’d like more privacy.
• If you prefer a private space, check your local shopping areas for locations of baby feed and change rooms. 

© Australian Breastfeeding Association October 2025