Breastfeeding Latching

Published at: 5/4/2023 by Leanne Rzepa, RN BN IBCLC in 'Lactation Consulting' Category

Breastfeeding Baby Latching Discussed by a Lactation Consultant

As a lactation consultant, one of the most important parts of my job is helping moms with baby latching issues. Latching is the process of getting a baby to attach to the breast to nurse. If a baby has a poor latch, he or she may not get enough milk and can lead to other issues such as sore nipples, poor weight gain, and even low milk supply. Therefore, it is incredibly important to ensure that a baby is properly latched every time they breastfeed.

How to Help a Baby Latch

The first step to helping a baby latch is to make sure the baby is in the correct position. The baby should be facing the mother's breast and the baby's head should be slightly tilted back. It is important that the baby's chin is touching the breast and the baby's lower lip is slightly curled to ensure a deep latch. Once the baby is in the correct position, the mother should help the baby to latch by gently guiding the baby's head and gently pressing the baby's chin down into the breast. The mother should also support the baby's neck and back while latching.

Once the baby is latched, the mother should make sure the baby's lips are flanged outward. This will ensure the baby is able to get a good seal on the breast and can draw out the milk more easily. The mother should also make sure the baby has a good mouthful of the breast, as this will help the baby get more milk. The mother should also make sure the baby is in a comfortable position and that the baby's head and neck are supported properly.

Signs of a Good Latch

When a baby has a good latch, the mother will be able to tell because the baby's chin will be tucked into the breast and the baby's lips will be flanged outward. The baby will also be able to draw out the milk easily and the mother will not experience any pain or discomfort. The mother should also be able to hear the baby swallowing and the baby should be able to stay latched for the entire feeding session.

Signs of a Poor Latch

If a baby has a poor latch, the mother will be able to tell because the baby's chin will not be tucked into the breast and the baby's lips will not be flanged outward. The baby may also have difficulty drawing out the milk and the mother may experience pain or discomfort. The baby may also be unable to stay latched for the entire feeding session.

Tips for Improving Latching

If a mother is having difficulty getting her baby to latch, there are a few tips that can help. First, the mother should make sure she is comfortable and relaxed. This will help the baby to latch more easily and will help the mother feel more relaxed. The mother should also make sure the baby is in the correct position before trying to latch. Additionally, the mother should take her time and allow the baby to latch at his or her own pace. Finally, the mother should make sure the baby has a good mouthful of the breast and that the baby's lips are flanged outward.

Conclusion

Helping a baby latch correctly is an important part of being a lactation consultant. It is important to ensure that the baby is in the correct position and that the baby has a good mouthful of the breast. Additionally, the mother should make sure the baby's lips are flanged outward and that the baby is able to stay latched for the entire feeding session. Finally, if the mother is having difficulty getting her baby to latch, there are a few tips that can help her improve her baby's latching ability.