Breastfeeding Latch Problems
A good latch is crucial for successful breastfeeding. Baby should have wide mouth (like a yawn) with both lips flanged out, chin touching breast, more areola visible above than below lip.
Signs of poor latch: painful nursing, nipple damage, clicking sounds, baby constantly hungry, poor weight gain, baby pulling off breast frequently.
Most latch issues can be resolved with positioning adjustments and practice.
What to Do
- Position baby tummy-to-tummy with you, nose aligned with nipple
- Wait for baby to open mouth wide (like a yawn), then bring baby to breast quickly
- Ensure baby takes both nipple AND areola into mouth, not just nipple tip
- Check that baby's lips are flanged out (like fish lips), not tucked in
- If it hurts, break suction with clean finger and try again - don't push through pain
- Try different positions: cradle, cross-cradle, football hold, side-lying
- Contact a certified lactation consultant (IBCLC) for personalized help