Baby led attachment

“Baby-led attachment is the term given to the process where your baby follows a pattern of instinctive behaviours to get to the breast. This can be for the first breastfeed or at any time when the attachment is not correct and your nipples are damaged.”
For more see here

UNICEF- the United Nations Children's Fund- have teamed up with the World Health Organisation and the World Alliance For Breastfeeding Action to encourage mothers in developing countries to breastfeed their babies. They are using the 'breast crawl' or 'baby led attachment' as the basis for an educational programme for health care workers in developing countries.

For more see here.

It is recommended that the mother sits as comfortably as possible and that both the mother and baby are calm before attempting this method of breastfeeding. Skin to skin contact is vitally important, making sure the room is warm enough for the baby and mother is key.

As the baby starts to follow her instincts she will start to bob her head, and then slowly start to crawl, slide or 'launch' themselves towards the breast. Supporting the baby during this process is vital. The baby may nuzzle the breast trying to find the nipple and attach themselves, naturally finding a perfect attachment.

It is important to take this process slowly, not to rush the baby as they will more than likely become upset. As this is a learning process for both the mother and baby it is ok to take as much time as needed (within reason! But don't give up after 5 minutes).