Welcome, new mommies! Breastfeeding can be a challenge, but with the right tools and mindset, it can be an incredible bonding experience for you and your little one 🥰 One essential component of successful breastfeeding is a proper latch. In this blog, we’ll explore why a correct latch is important, how to achieve it, and what pitfalls to avoid.

What is a latch? 🤔

A latch is how your baby attaches to your breast to extract milk. A correct latch means that your baby’s mouth covers not only the nipple but also a good portion of the areola. With the proper attachment, your baby can stimulate milk production while avoiding discomfort, pain, and nipple trauma for you 👍

A Mommy breastfeeding her little one with a correct latch

Why is a correct latch important? 🤷‍♀️

A correct latch is essential for successful and pain-free breastfeeding 🙌 When your baby latches on properly, they use their tongue to extract milk, rather than just clamping with their jaw. A good latch also ensures that your baby empties your breast efficiently, promoting milk production and preventing blocked ducts or mastitis. Finally, a proper latch can help to prevent sore and cracked nipples, which can make breastfeeding uncomfortable or even painful.

A mom with painful, cracked nipples from an incorrect latch

How can you achieve a correct latch? 🤲

First, find a comfortable position to breastfeed. You can try holding your baby in a cradle hold, football hold, or lying down position, depending on what feels best for you and your baby. Then, make sure that your baby’s mouth is wide open, with their lips flanged outwards. Gently but firmly bring your baby’s mouth towards your breast, aiming for the nipple to be in their upper lip/nose area. When they open wide enough, bring them onto your breast, aiming the nipple towards the back of their mouth. Their chin should be pressed into your breast while still being able to breathe.

A mom holding her baby in the cradle hold breastfeeding with a correctly latched baby.

Pitfalls to avoid 🙅‍♀️

One common mistake new moms make is allowing their baby to take only the nipple rather than the areola as well. This can lead to sore and cracked nipples, as well as difficulty for the baby to feed properly. Another mistake is not positioning your baby correctly, which can lead to insufficient milk production or a shallow latch that creates nipple trauma.

A mom with a wrapped around thumb hiding a pinched nipple due to incorrect latch

Conclusion 🎉

Proper breastfeeding technique requires patience, some trial and error, and most importantly, a desire to understand the needs of your baby 👶🍼 A correct latch is crucial to making breastfeeding an enjoyable and effective experience for both you and your little one. Remember to keep trying, reach out to experienced moms or lactation consultants for help if needed, and stay positive 😁

A mom and her little one gazing into each other's eyes while breastfeeding with a correct latch

Congratulations on taking on the challenge and privilege of breastfeeding! With the right information and support, you and your baby can make it a successful and enriching experience 🌟