Baby
3 min Read
Latching On
March 9, 2007
Baby
3 min Read
March 9, 2007
Correct ‘latch’ is the key to successful breastfeeding. This is the most important thing to establish in order to ensure that milk is being produced, your baby is getting enough milk, and your nipples don’t become sore.
If breastfeeding is painful for the mother, the baby is probably not swallowing and not getting enough milk. This isn’t good for mother or baby!
The lips will be rolled outward, and the chin (and usually the nose) will be touching the breast.
You will see and hear your baby start to suck and swallow as milk is released from your breast. Noisy sucking and swallowing is nothing to be worried about; it’s normal for some babies.
If there is pain while breastfeeding, take the baby off your breast and start the latch again.
Remember that in the first week or two, you may experience uterine cramps as your baby sucks. The cramps can be moderate to severe.
This is part of the involution process, in which the body returns to its pre-pregnant state.
Breaking The Latch
Most babies spontaneously come off the breast when they are full. When your baby is full and has clearly stopped feeding, dont pull the nipple out right away. Instead, break the suction by inserting one of your fingers into the corner of the baby’s mouth. This will let in some air and help your baby to let go of your breast. This technique is also a lot easier on your nipple.
Some Helpful Tips:
Published in March 2007