Breastfeeding is not a breeze at first. Many moms'd ask, “Why won’t my baby latch?” or “How can I get a good latch?” The truth is that a proper latch is key to a comfortable and successful breastfeeding. If your baby is having trouble latching, sucking, or staying on the breast, don’t worry—you’re not alone. This guide will help you understand what a good latch looks like, how to achieve it, and what to do when challenges arise.
What is a Good Latch?
A good latch refers to the way your baby properly attaches to the breast during breastfeeding. It's not just about having your baby’s mouth on your nipple—it's about achieving a deep, comfortable latch that allows the baby to effectively extract milk and helps prevent discomfort for the mother. A proper latch ensures the baby’s mouth covers the nipple and a significant portion of the areola (the dark skin around the nipple). This way, the baby can suck efficiently without causing pain to the mother.
Signs of a Good Latch
| Signs | Description |
| Comfortable and Pain-Free | The latch should not cause pain or discomfort. A painful latch often indicates a shallow latch. |
| Baby's Chin Touches Your Breast | The baby’s chin should touch your breast, indicating a deep latch. |
| Wide Open Mouth | Baby’s mouth should open wide, with the lips flaring outward (like fish lips), and more of the areola above the upper lip than below the lower lip. |
| Full, Rounded Cheeks | The baby’s cheeks should look full and rounded while sucking, indicating efficient milk extraction. |
| Nose Clear of the Breast | The baby’s nose should not be obstructed, allowing them to breathe easily while feeding. |
| Hearing or Seeing Swallowing | Swallowing sounds or visible throat movements show that milk is being transferred. |
| No Visible Nipple Damage | After nursing, your nipple should return to its normal shape without flattening or distortion. |
Signs of a Bad Breastfeeding Latch
| Signs | Description |
| Pain | Sharp or ongoing pain means the latch may be too shallow. |
| Nipple Deformity | Flattened or misshapen nipples after feeding suggest an improper latch. |
| Narrow Mouth | A small mouth opening often leads to a shallow and ineffective latch. |
| Inward Lips | Lips tucked inward mean the baby is likely only sucking on the nipple. |
| No Swallowing | Lack of swallowing sounds or movement shows milk isn’t transferring properly. |
| Fussiness | A fussy or frustrated baby may struggle to latch correctly. |
| Misaligned Head | A tucked or turned head can make a good latch difficult. |
| Hollow Cheeks | Sunken cheeks indicate ineffective sucking. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Baby to Latch Properly
A successful latch is key to effective breastfeeding. Follow these steps to help your baby latch properly:
- Hold your baby close with their nose at the level of your nipple. Ensure their whole body is aligned, with their ear, shoulder, and hip in a straight line.
- Gently tickle your baby’s upper lip with your nipple to encourage them to open their mouth wide. Their mouth should resemble a yawn.
- When your baby opens their mouth wide enough, guide their chin towards your breast. Their lower lip should be positioned far below the nipple, ensuring they take a large portion of the areola into their mouth.
- Once your baby’s chin touches your breast and their mouth is wide open, make sure their nose remains clear. You should see more of the areola above their top lip than below the bottom lip. Your baby’s cheeks should be rounded and full, indicating they are sucking efficiently.
If you need additional support while breastfeeding, using the Momcozy Nursing Pillow can provide comfort and proper support to position your baby well, making it easier to achieve a good latch.
What if My Baby Has Difficulties in Latching?
Breastfeeding may not always go as smoothly as you'd hope, and some babies experience difficulties when trying to latch. Here's a breakdown of common latching problems and solutions to help guide you through them.
| Common Latching Problems | How to Solve These Latching Issues |
| Shallow Latch |
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| Tongue-Tie (Ankyloglossia) |
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| Weak Suck |
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| Fussiness or Refusal to Latch |
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These common latching issues can often be resolved with patience and persistence. If problems persist, consulting a lactation consultant can provide personalized support and guidance to ensure both you and your baby have a successful breastfeeding experience.
Best Nursing Positions to Get Your Baby to Latch Properly
The right nursing position plays a huge role in a successful latch. Here are some of the most effective positions to try:
- Cradle Hold: Hold your baby in your arms with their head resting in the crook of your elbow, facing your breast. This is ideal for babies who are able to latch easily but may not be suitable for premature or weak suckling babies.
- Cross-Cradle Hold: This position involves supporting your baby’s head with the opposite hand while holding them across your body. It gives you more control and is great for babies who need extra head support or have a weak suck.
- Football (Clutch) Hold: Particularly useful if you’ve had a C-section or have large breasts. In this position, your baby is tucked under your arm, with their head at the level of your nipple and their body supported by your arm.
- Side-Lying Position: Ideal for moms recovering from a C-section, this position allows you to lie on your side while your baby lies facing you. It’s a relaxed position and can help if you need rest during the feeding.
- Laid-Back Position: This baby-led, relaxed position involves reclining and allowing your baby to find the breast on their own, with gravity guiding them. You can support your baby’s head and shoulders gently, but avoid forcing the latch.
In all of these positions, ensure that your baby’s mouth opens wide, their chin touches your breast, and their nose is clear of obstruction. If you find a certain position more comfortable, stick with it, but don’t hesitate to try others as needed. A good nursing pillow can provide excellent support while nursing, especially in positions like the cradle hold or side-lying.
FAQs
Why does my baby push my breast away when trying to latch?
Your baby might push your breast away for a few reasons, like frustration, discomfort, or trouble with the latch. They could be struggling to get a proper latch, or they might just be feeling overwhelmed.
What is the 7-week breastfeeding crisis?
Around 7 weeks postpartum, many moms go through a phase where breastfeeding feels harder. This can happen because your baby is going through a growth spurt and needs more milk. It might come with extra fussiness, more frequent feedings, or trouble latching.
Why does my baby keep latching and unlatching repeatedly?
Frequent latching and unlatching can mean your baby isn’t fully satisfied or is adjusting their latch. It might also be a sign that they’re still learning how to feed or dealing with discomfort, like gas or reflux. Check the latch to make sure it’s right, and try to keep things calm and relaxed.
How to encourage a deeper latch?
To encourage a deeper latch, gently guide your baby’s mouth to open wide (you can lightly tickle their lips with your nipple to help). Ensure that when they latch, their chin touches your breast, and their mouth covers a large portion of your areola—not just the nipple. If needed, adjust their position or try a different hold, such as the cross-cradle or football hold, to give them better control over their latch.
Why does my baby seem fussy or refuse to latch?
Babies may refuse to latch if they're too tired, too hungry, or if there's something causing discomfort (like gas). Stay calm, try skin-to-skin contact, and offer the breast again after a short break. If frustration continues, consider expressing milk with a pump, like the Momcozy M9 Breast Pump, to reduce stress.
How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Look for signs like steady weight gain, a good amount of wet diapers (about 6-8 per day), and visible swallowing while nursing. If you’re unsure, contact a lactation consultant for advice on milk transfer.
What should I do if my baby latches but doesn’t seem to be feeding well?
Check the latch: It should feel comfortable, not painful. Ensure your baby is opening their mouth wide and covering a good portion of the areola. If problems persist, try changing positions or use a breast pump to express milk, then offer it in a bottle temporarily.
What’s the best way to break the suction when unlatching my baby?
Gently place your clean finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth to release the suction before pulling them off your breast. This will prevent nipple injury.
Can my baby latch better with the right pillow support?
Yes, using a pillow like the Momcozy Nursing Pillow can provide excellent support to both you and your baby, ensuring a more comfortable and stable position, especially when using holds like the cradle or side-lying position.
Why do my breasts feel sore or cracked after nursing?
Soreness or cracks can happen if your baby isn't latched deeply enough. Reevaluate the latch and positioning. Ensure your baby’s mouth is wide open, and they’re not just sucking on the nipple.
Conclusion
Getting a good latch may take some trial and error, but it’s a skill you and your baby can master together. Even small changes, such as in how you hold your baby or position them, can make a big difference. If you feel stuck, don’t hesitate to ask for support. With patience, practice, and plenty of encouragement, you’ll create a special rhythm with your baby that makes all the early struggles worthwhile.
