As a first-time mom, I was overwhelmed with the many aspects of breastfeeding. One particular challenge was achieving a good latch. Initially, my baby would latch onto one breast but struggle with the other. After much trial and error, I discovered that the breast she had difficulty latching onto had a higher flow than the other. This made it challenging for her to latch properly and feed comfortably.
In my quest to make breastfeeding easier for both of us, I experimented with nipple shields. While they offered temporary relief, I knew I needed a more permanent solution. After learning how to help my baby latch properly by introducing the nipple towards her mouth palate, I finally ditched the nipple shields. To ensure she wasn’t overwhelmed by the milk flow, I began expressing a little milk ahead of time. This simple adjustment made a significant difference, allowing her to latch successfully and feed comfortably.
Understanding the importance of a good latch
Step-by-step guide to achieving a good latch
Achieving a good latch is crucial for both mom and baby. A proper latch ensures that your baby is getting enough milk and helps prevent nipple pain and damage. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you and your baby achieve a successful latch.
1. Positioning your baby
Start by finding a comfortable position for both you and your baby. Common positions include the cradle hold, cross-cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position. Ensure that your baby’s head and body are aligned, facing your breast.
2. Align your baby’s mouth with your nipple
Bring your baby close to your breast. Align their nose with your nipple, and wait for them to open their mouth wide. You can gently tickle their upper lip with your nipple to encourage them to open wide.
3. Guide your nipple towards the palate
Once your baby’s mouth is wide open, aim your nipple towards the roof of their mouth. This helps in positioning the nipple towards their palate, encouraging a deep latch. A deep latch ensures that more of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) is in their mouth, not just the nipple.
4. Support your breast
Supporting your breast with your hand can help maintain the proper position. Use a “C” hold (thumb on top, fingers underneath) or a “U” hold (fingers on either side of the breast) to guide your breast into your baby’s mouth.
Here is a video of “the sandwich technique” that helped me achieve a good latch.
5. Express a little milk
If you have a fast milk flow, expressing a little milk before feeding can help. This prevents your baby from being overwhelmed by the initial rush of milk, making it easier for them to latch and feed comfortably.
What is a good latch vs. a bad latch?
Understanding the difference between a good and a bad latch is crucial for successful breastfeeding.
Good latch:
- Your baby’s mouth covers both the nipple and a large portion of the areola.
- Your baby’s lips are flanged out like a fish.
- You feel a strong, painless tugging sensation.
- You can see your baby’s jaw moving and hear swallowing sounds.
- Your baby is relaxed and content after feeding.
Bad latch:
- Your baby’s mouth only covers the nipple.
- Your baby’s lips are tucked in.
- You feel sharp pain or pinching during feeding.
- You hear clicking or smacking noises.
- Your nipples appear flattened or creased after feeding.
Tongue tie: Can it be an issue for latching?
Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition where the tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual. This can restrict tongue movement and make it difficult for babies to latch properly.
Signs of tongue tie:
- Difficulty latching onto the breast.
- Feeding for extended periods without seeming satisfied.
- Clicking or smacking noises during feeding.
- Poor weight gain.
- Sore or damaged nipples for the mother.
If you suspect your baby has a tongue tie, consult with a lactation consultant or pediatrician. They can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include a simple procedure to release the tongue tie.
How to tell if baby latched properly
Visual and auditory cues:
- Wide mouth: Your baby’s mouth should be open wide, covering the nipple and areola.
- Flanged lips: Your baby’s lips should be turned outwards.
- No pain: You should feel a gentle tugging sensation, not pain.
- Jaw movement: You should see your baby’s jaw moving rhythmically.
- Swallowing sounds: Listen for soft swallowing sounds.
Baby’s behavior:
- Contentment: Your baby should seem relaxed and satisfied after feeding.
- Effective feeding: Your baby should be gaining weight appropriately and producing enough wet and dirty diapers.
Troubleshooting common latching problems
Problem: Nipple pain or damage
- Solution: Ensure your baby has a deep latch. If you experience pain, break the suction by gently inserting your finger into the corner of their mouth and try latching again.
Problem: Baby prefers one breast
- Solution: This could be due to different milk flow rates. Expressing a little milk from the faster-flow breast can help. Additionally, try different positions to make latching more comfortable for your baby.
Problem: Baby won’t latch at all
- Solution: Stay calm and try to create a relaxed environment. Skin-to-skin contact can encourage your baby to latch. Seek support from a lactation consultant if needed.
Problem: Tongue tie
- Solution: Tongue tie can make it difficult for babies to latch properly. If you suspect a tongue tie, consult with a lactation consultant or pediatrician. They can perform an assessment and, if necessary, a simple procedure to release the tongue tie, which can significantly improve your baby’s ability to latch. My personal experience with this is to not rush into doing the procedure until you know for a fact that baby is losing weight and not getting enough milk. I had an assessment from a lactation consultant that my baby had a tongue tie. I continue feeding her and watch her weight (obsessively) and things were fine. Also get a second opinion, from your pediatrician.
Additional tips for success
- Stay patient: Both you and your baby are learning. Patience and practice are key.
- Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek help from lactation consultants or breastfeeding support groups.
- Take care of yourself: Ensure you’re well-hydrated and nourished. Your well-being directly impacts your breastfeeding experience.
- If your baby doesn’t latch, don’t fret! you can always pump and feed from the bottle. It’s not the same I get it, but a fed baby is a happy baby!
Nursing products
 My Brest Friend Nursing Pillow Enhanced Ergonomics |  Burp Cloths Set |
 Hot and Cold Breast Pads |  Nipple Butter™ Breastfeeding Cream – safe for baby to ingest (if your nipple cracks) |
 Lansinoh Stay Dry Disposable Nursing Pads (if you are dripping in between feeds) |  Contact Nipple Shields for Breastfeeding (if your baby bites you this can help. Make sure you get a size that suits you) |
