Mastering the Proper Latch: A Key to Successful Breastfeeding

The Regal Quill
Aug 4
3 min read

One of the most important skills for successful breastfeeding is achieving a proper latch. A good latch ensures that your baby gets enough milk, prevents nipple pain, and helps establish a positive breastfeeding experience for both parent and baby.

Why Proper Latch Matters

A proper latch is more than just comfort—it’s about efficiency and health. Babies who latch well are able to remove milk effectively, which helps maintain milk supply and promotes steady growth. Poor latch, on the other hand, can lead to sore nipples, low milk intake, and even early weaning (Geddes et al., 2008).

Signs of a Good Latch

When your baby is latched properly, you should notice:

Wide Open Mouth: Baby’s lips are flanged outward, not tucked in.
Chin Tucked into Breast: Nose free or barely touching the breast.
More Areola Visible Above Baby’s Top Lip: Baby should take in more of the bottom portion of the areola.
Rhythmic Suckling and Swallowing: You may hear soft swallowing sounds.
No Pain Beyond Initial Tugs: Breastfeeding should not hurt after the first few seconds.

Signs of a Poor Latch

Be on the lookout for:

Clicking or smacking sounds while baby nurses
Cheeks dimpling inward with each suck
Persistent nipple pain or cracking
Baby not gaining weight adequately
Long, frequent feedings without satisfaction

Tips to Achieve a Proper Latch

Positioning Matters: Hold your baby tummy-to-tummy, with their nose in line with your nipple.
Wait for a Wide Mouth: Gently brush your nipple against your baby’s lips to stimulate a wide gape.
Bring Baby to the Breast: Don’t lean into your baby; bring them to you.
Support the Breast: Use a “C-hold” (hand around the breast) or “U-hold” (fingers under the breast) for better guidance.
Break the Seal if Needed: If the latch is painful, gently insert a clean finger into the corner of baby’s mouth to release suction and try again.

How Partners and Family Can Help

Offer a pillow or water during feeds
Encourage mom by praising her efforts
Watch for signs of discomfort and suggest breaks
Take on burping, diapering, or soothing after feeds

Breastfeeding is a team effort, and having a supportive family can make all the difference.

When to Seek Professional Help

Reach out to a lactation educator or consultant if:

You experience ongoing nipple pain
Baby has difficulty staying latched
You notice baby is not gaining weight
You suspect a tongue-tie or other oral restriction

Early intervention can make a world of difference in your breastfeeding journey.

Final Thoughts

Learning proper latch takes time and practice. Remember: every feeding is a new opportunity for growth and connection. With patience, guidance, and support, you and your baby can thrive together.

References

Geddes, D. T., Kent, J. C., Mitoulas, L. R., & Hartmann, P. E. (2008). Tongue movement and intra-oral vacuum in breastfeeding infants. Early Human Development, 84(7), 471–477. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2007.12.008
La Leche League International. (2021). The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. Ballantine Books.
Morton, J., & Hall, J. Y. (2017). Successful breastfeeding: Establishing the latch. Journal of Human Lactation, 33(2), 331–335. https://doi.org/10.1177/0890334417699200
Odom, E. C., Li, R., Scanlon, K. S., Perrine, C. G., & Grummer-Strawn, L. (2013). Reasons for earlier than desired cessation of breastfeeding. Pediatrics, 131(3), e726-e732. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2012-1295

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Doulas are not medical professionals and do not provide clinical care. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your wellness or prenatal routine.

From my cradle to yours,

The Regal Quill