Double football hold

The double football hold, also known as the clutch hold, is a breastfeeding position where you nurse both twins simultaneously, with each baby positioned under your arms like a football. This hold allows you to have good control over each baby's head and body, making it easier to ensure a proper latch.

What to watch out for

It’s important to recognize the benefits and techniques of the double football hold and how to manage it effectively. Here are some considerations and tips:

Benefits

Control: Provides excellent control over each baby's head and body, helping ensure a good latch and effective feeding.
Visibility: Allows you to see each baby's face, making it easier to monitor their latch and comfort.
Comfort: Keeps pressure off your abdomen, which can be especially beneficial if you are recovering from a C-section.

Potential Challenges

Positioning: Getting both babies into the correct position can be challenging, especially in the early days.
Support: Ensuring proper support for your back, arms, and the babies is important to prevent strain and discomfort.

Tips for Managing the Double Football Hold

Use a nursing pillow: A specialized twin nursing pillow, like the TwinZ Nursing Pillow, can provide support and help position the babies comfortably. Alternatively, use multiple pillows or cushions to create a stable base.
Sit comfortably: Find a comfortable chair with good back support. Sit upright with your back supported to avoid straining your back.
Position the first baby: Place the first baby under your arm, with their head near your breast and their body supported by a pillow. Their legs should extend towards the back of the chair.
Position the second baby: Place the second baby under your other arm in the same manner, ensuring both babies are at the same level and their heads are near your breasts.
Latch correctly: Ensure both babies have a good latch to prevent nipple pain and ensure effective feeding. Their mouths should cover a large part of the areola.
Adjust for comfort: Make any necessary adjustments to ensure both you and your babies are comfortable. You might need to shift the babies slightly or add extra pillows for support.

Physical limitations or health circumstances

Certain conditions can influence the use of the double football hold:

Reflux: Babies with reflux may benefit from being fed in a more upright position, which the football hold can accommodate.
Premature birth: Premature babies may have special feeding needs, but the double football hold can still be beneficial with proper support.
C-section recovery: Mamas recovering from a C-section may find the double football hold more comfortable as it avoids placing pressure on the abdomen.

Other terms

Understanding related terms can help you better manage the double football hold and related feeding practices:

Latch: The way your baby attaches to your breast. A good latch is important for effective breastfeeding. Learn more about achieving a good latch.
Nursing pillow: A pillow designed to support you and your babies during breastfeeding, providing stability and comfort.
Reflux: A condition where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort.
Cluster feeding: Periods when a baby feeds more frequently over a few hours, often in the evening.
Lactation consultant: A professional who can provide support and guidance on breastfeeding, including techniques for nursing twins.
Tandem breastfeeding: The practice of breastfeeding two children at the same time, often a newborn and an older sibling. It can help maintain milk supply and foster a strong bond between siblings.

double football hold