Getting a Good Latch When Breastfeeding
A proper latch is key to effective breastfeeding. If you’re a new parent beginning your breastfeeding journey, you’ll want to ensure that baby is latching correctly. This helps your little one get all the milk they need while preventing your nipples from cracking or becoming sore.
Getting Baby To Latch Properly
Be sure you’re sitting in a comfortable position and using a breastfeeding pillow if you have one:
Baby should be tummy to tummy with you and facing you.
Baby’s head should not be turned to the side and your little one’s nose should be opposite of your nipple.
Grasp your breast and direct your nipple toward baby’s upper lip. Gently rub your nipple across your little one’s upper lip to encourage them to open their mouth.
Baby’s chin should not be on their chest, and their head should be tilted back slightly. They should open their mouth wide with their tongue down to help them latch properly.
Signs of a Good Latch
There are many ways you can tell if your little one is latching properly, including:
- Feeding your baby is comfortable and painless.
- Baby’s chin touches your breast.
- You hear your baby swallowing.
- Baby’s mouth is latched onto both your nipple and surrounding areola.
- Baby’s lips turn outwards like a fish and tongue is positioned under your nipple.
Common Latching Problems and Solutions
Remember, breastfeeding is a new experience for you both. Though it’s natural, it’s also a learned behavior that can require patience and focus at times. It’s not unusual, especially early on, to experience some latching problems as you and your little one discover how to nurse together.
Pain
It’s not uncommon to feel some discomfort when you first begin breastfeeding. However, if your nipples hurt or are cracking, your baby may be only sucking on your nipple – rather than having both your nipple and surrounding areola in their mouth. To adjust, carefully break baby’s suction by gently placing your finger in the corner of his or her mouth. If baby is not latching properly, your nipple will look flat rather than round and long. To try again, gently rub your nipple against baby’s upper lip. When they open their mouth wide with their tongue dropped down, they will likely be able to latch properly.
Frustration
If your little one is showing hunger cues and your milk doesn’t seem to be letting down, or they’re not latching properly, you could both be feeling frustrated. Take a few minutes to soothe your baby and relax. Rock and/or sing to baby while holding him or her close and try again in a few minutes.
Flat or Inverted Nipples
Flat or inverted nipples can cause unique challenges when breastfeeding. Fortunately, there are many solutions. You can try using a breast shell inside your bra for about a half-hour before feeding. These help to draw out flat or inverted nipples. A breast pump used for a short time right before feeding can also help stimulate your nipples. You can also try using a nipple shield to keep your little one at your breast while addressing common issues like latching difficulties or flat or inverted nipples.
Tongue Tie
Some babies are born with ankyloglossia, also more commonly known as a tongue tie. This is a condition in which the tissue at the bottom of the tongue (lingual frenulum) is short, thick, or tight, tethering more of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. This restricts your baby’s range of motion with their tongue and can make breastfeeding challenging. Speak to your pediatrician if you believe your baby could have a tongue tie.
Different Breastfeeding Positions
Oftentimes, adjusting your breastfeeding position can make it easier for your baby to latch. Work with a lactation consultant and try some of the following positions to find the one that is most comfortable and works best for you and your little one.
Football Hold
Hold your baby on the same side as the breast you’ll be nursing from. Make sure they’re facing you with their legs tucked under your arm like a football. This is a good hold if you’re recovering from a C-section because there’s very little weight or pressure on your abdomen.
Cradle Hold
With baby’s head resting on your forearm, make sure their body is facing yours and let them latch. This is a comfortable position for both you and baby.
Straddle Hold
Lying back on a pillow, gently lay baby against your body with their head just above and between your breasts. As you support your baby’s head and neck, gently guide them toward your breast.
Side-Lying Position
This can also be another position to try if you’ve had a C-section. With baby facing you, lie on your side and cuddle him or her close while they nurse.
Remember, with plenty of practice and a bit of time, you and your little one will adjust, learn how to breastfeed together, and enjoy those close bonding moments. As always, if you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask for help from your doctor or a lactation specialist. We know you’ve got this, mama!
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