Hint: Pain or frustration from baby is probably a good indicator of a poor latch!
Good or Poor latch, why does it matter?
A good latch is crucial for a successful breastfeeding journey. When your baby has a good latch, they are able to effectively drain your breast and stimulate milk production. This means your baby will be getting the nourishment they need, and you’ll be avoiding common issues like low milk supply and engorgement.
On the other hand, a poor latch can lead to a multitude of problems. Not only can it be painful for you, but it can also result in your baby not getting enough milk, which can cause them to become frustrated and cranky.
So, whether you’re a new mama or have been breastfeeding for a while, it’s essential to understand the importance of a good latch and how to achieve it.
Comfortable Feeding
A good latch ensures that breastfeeding is comfortable for the mother, reducing the risk of sore nipples.
Effective Milk Transfer
With a proper latch, the baby can effectively transfer milk, promoting healthy weight gain and development.
Adequate Milk Supply
A good latch stimulates the breast to produce an adequate milk supply, meeting the baby’s nutritional needs.
Bonding Experience
Breastfeeding with a good latch enhances the bonding experience between mother and baby, fostering emotional connection.
How can I tell if my baby has a good latch?
A good is deep latch. A good latch typically feels comfortable and pain-free. Baby’s mouth should be wide open, with their lips flanged outward and covering a large portion of the areola. This ensures that they are properly latched onto the breast, creating a strong seal and allowing for effective milk transfer.
One way to check if your baby has a good latch is to pay attention to their sucking patterns. A baby with a good latch will have a rhythmic sucking pattern, with deep, slow sucks and occasional swallowing sounds. If you notice your baby is making smacking or clicking noises or seems to be sucking shallowly, it may be a sign of a poor latch.
What are the signs of effective milk transfer.
Signs of effective milk transfer
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The baby moves from short rapid sucks, to slow, deep sucks early on in the feeding.
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You can feel letdown.
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No smacking or clicking noises.
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Baby is swallowing after to 1 to 2 sucks (you can hear this).
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Baby is able to maintain a latch through the nursing session.
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Breast softens as feeding progresses.
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Baby is satisfied at the end of feeding and unlatches.
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Baby shows signs of being content and calm after and in between feedings (for the most part).
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Mother is comfortable feeding, without pain during or after feeding.
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Nipples are not sore, blanched or misshapen.
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Baby’s weight gain and bowl movement are appropriate for their age.
What are the signs of a poor latch?
Signs of a poor latch include pain during or after feeding, clicking sounds, and “colicky symptoms” for baby. Your nipples may also appear flattened or creased after feeding.
Another sign of a poor latch is when your baby isn’t gaining enough weight or isn’t having enough wet diapers. This can be a result from ineffective milk transfer due to an improper latch. If you notice your baby constantly falling asleep at the breast or becoming frustrated during feeding, it could be a sign that they are not getting enough milk while latched.
Additional signs are:
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A baby with a shallow latch may be unable to stay latched for more than several sucks. In comparison, a baby who is latched with ample amount of breast tissue will settle into a sucking rhythm and continue to nurse until they are full.
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Dimpling or puckering of the baby’s cheeks when sucking.
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Clicking or smacking noises. This is different than the sound of baby gulping.
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Observing no swallowing during the feeding.
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The mother’s nipples appearing flattened, blanched or creased after baby unlatches.
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Baby is fussy during or after feeding.
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Little or no change in the fullness of the breasts from the beginning to the end of the feeding. (We would only see this once mature milk comes in!)
Is pain normal?
Breastfeeding, should NEVER, ever hurt. And if it does there is a problem. A problem that can be fixed!
It’s important to remember that breastfeeding should not be painful, and any discomfort should be promptly addressed. I really want to emphazise this point. There is a ton of poor advice out there, that advises mothers that pain comes with the territory. This is poor advice. Pain indicates that there is a problem that needs to be addressed.
What should I do if breastfeeding is painful?
Pain during breastfeeding can be due to a shallow latch or even incorrect positioning. However, one of the biggest reason for pain during breastfeeding is the presence of a lip and/or tongue tie. Getting the baby evaluated and revised for oral ties as soon as possible, will ensure a successful breastfeeding journey.
Why is my baby not latching properly?
There could be several reasons, including a shallow latch, tongue-tie, or incorrect positioning. Consulting with a lactation specialist can help identify the issue.
What will happen if baby's latch is not addressed?
A poorly latched baby is unable to remove milk from the mother’s breasts efficiently, putting the mother at risk for engorgement, plugged ducts, and mastitis. Unless corrected, milk production with diminish and lactation failure is likely to result.
This will also effect the baby. Because of the mother’s decreased milk production, the baby will not be able to transfer enough milk and experience fussiness, hunger and irritability. The baby’s diaper output may also be low, which can result in weight loss for the baby.
What is a tongue tie and how does it affect breastfeeding?
A tongue tie is a condition where the tissue connecting the baby’s tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual, which can restrict movement and make latching difficult. A lip tie is where the tissue of the upper lip is attached to the gums in a way that prevents lip movement and makes breastfeeding difficult for your baby.
If baby is tied, they cannot get that deep latch! A deeply latched baby can draw more milk from the breast. Getting more milk will not only help your baby to gain weight and the milk they need, but it will also help to ensure you have a good milk supply as your baby grows. And no pain for mama.
Are ties a big deal?
Yes. Lip and tongue ties affect more than just breastfeeding. Even if a baby can breastfeed well and without causing pain, ties can affect jaw and dental development, breathing, chewing, swallowing and digestion. Oral ties are also associated with reflux, which can cause significant pain for the baby.
Untreated ties have been linked to complications in both children and adults, such as: Food aversions and choking, sleep apnea, sids, dental decay and unhealthy gums, need for orthodontics, migraines, reflux, IBS, improper jaw growth and development, speech delay or impediments, sinus complications…and more.
Can oral ties be treated?
Yes, oral ties can be treated with a simple procedure called a frenotomy, which releases the tie to improve movement and latching.
How can I improve my baby's latch?
Newborns are still developing their sucking reflex, which means they may initially struggle to latch properly. It requires practice for the both of you. With time, practice, and the right support, you can overcome ALL of these challenges. Here are some tips:
How can I tell if my baby is getting enough milk?
Look for signs such as regular wet diapers, steady weight gain, and a satisfied demeanor after feeding.
Identifying Poor Latch Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of a poor latch is the first step to addressing breastfeeding challenges.
Pain and Discomfort
Persistent pain during breastfeeding can indicate a shallow latch or retractions in baby’s mouth, which needs immediate attention to prevent further complications.
Inefficient Milk Transfer
A poor latch can hinder milk transfer, causing the baby to remain hungry and irritable, impacting their overall health.
Low Diaper Output
Insufficient milk intake due to a poor latch may result in fewer wet diapers, signaling inadequate nutrition for the baby.
Breast Engorgement
When milk is not effectively removed, it can lead to engorgement, increasing the risk of plugged ducts and mastitis.
Clicking or smacking noises.
This is different than the sound of baby gulping.
Ways to improve latch:
Step 1
Ensure a Comfortable Position
Experiment with different holds such as biological nurturing or side-lying position to see what works best. Make sure your baby’s body is aligned correctly. Their ear, shoulder, and hip should form a straight line, and they should be tummy-to-tummy with you.
Step 2
Encourage a Wide Mouth
Gently stimulate your baby’s lower lip with your nipple to encourage them to open their mouth wide for a deeper latch.
If your breasts are overly full or swollen, it can be difficult for your baby to latch properly. To alleviate this issue, try expressing a small amount of milk before latching your baby. This will soften the breast and make it easier for your baby to latch.
Step 3
Break and Re-Latch
If the latch is shallow, gently break the suction with your pinky finger and try again to achieve a deeper latch.
Step 4
Check for Oral Ties!
Get baby evaluated by a lactation specialist or pediatric dentist. If baby is tied, revision is needed.
Breastfeeding is not always easy, and looks differently for each mother and baby. The journey to a good latch may not happen overnight. It can be a process of trial and error, and it’s completely normal to experience setbacks along the way. But don’t give up! Just because baby is having trouble latching, all these challenges can be overcome and fixed. You should never doubt your abilities as a mother. Remember, you are strong, you are capable, and you’ve got this! It is ok to struggle and it is ok to ask for help. What matters most is your determination to provide the best nourishment for your little one.
Learn About Proper Latching Techniques
Watch this informative video to see demonstrations of proper latching techniques and learn how to identify signs of a poor latch. This visual guide can help you ensure a comfortable and effective breastfeeding experience.
Get Expert Guidance for Better Latching
If you’re concerned about your baby’s latch, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice. A proper latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding and your baby’s comfort. Discover resources and expert help to ensure a healthy feeding experience for you and your baby.