6 min. read While breastfeeding is a natural part of motherhood, it can require practice, patience and a little advance preparation. And if you do opt to breastfeed your baby, don’t be discouraged if you run into the common challenge of achieving a good breastfeeding latch.
The breastfeeding latch is one of the most common feeding concerns for new mums, and understandably so; it’s important that your baby latches properly during feedings to ensure that they are getting enough breast milk. A proper breastfeeding latch is also important to help you avoid breast discomfort and sore nipples.
One of the best ways to get your baby to latch is to find a breastfeeding position that works for both you and your little one. Here we will discuss the different nursing positions and other tips to help you achieve a correct breastfeeding latch.
Bear in mind that our articles aren’t a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any remaining questions or concerns, contact your doctor or a lactation specialist for further support.
Before we discuss the different breastfeeding positions, there are a few steps you can follow that may help your baby to latch during feedings: Popular breastfeeding positions to achieve a good latch Here are some common positions that can help you and your baby achieve a proper breastfeeding latch:2
When you’re learning how to get baby to latch, it’s important to establish a breastfeeding position that works for both you and your baby. Experiment with different breastfeeding positions until you find one that makes you feel comfortable and helps your baby achieve a good latch.
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When you’re learning how to get baby to latch, it’s important to establish a breastfeeding position that works for both you and your baby. Experiment with different breastfeeding positions until you find one that makes you feel comfortable and helps your baby achieve a good latch.
Here are some common positions that can help you and your baby achieve a proper breastfeeding latch:2
The laid-back or reclining position is ideal for mothers who are breastfeeding for the first time. To try this position, simply lean back in a reclining position with pillows supporting your neck, shoulders and arms. With your baby’s belly on yours, allow them to find your breast and make any necessary adjustments.
If you are looking for nursing positions that allow you to feed your baby and rest at the same time, the side-lying position may be perfect for you. Lie on your side with cushions or pillows behind you for support. Your baby can then lie facing you to nurse. You can also place a towel or blanket behind your little one to keep them in place while feeding. Make sure any pillows you’re using aren’t too close to your baby’s face.
Another great position to achieve a good breastfeeding latch, the cradle hold calls for you to sit in a chair with arm rests, or on a bed where you can support yourself with pillows. If you’re in a chair, it can help to prop your feet up on a footstool. Lay your baby sideways across your lap, facing you, and then rest your baby’s head on your forearm, allowing your hand to support their whole body while they feed.
For this position, start by sitting on a comfortable chair with pillows for support. Place your baby on their back on a pillow, with their legs coming under your arm and their nose level with your nipple. While supporting your baby’s back and shoulders with your forearm, cradle the head with the same hand, and use the other hand to support the breast that your baby is feeding from.
When trying these different breastfeeding positions, your newborn may respond better to one over another.
Once you do find a good position, look out for the following signs that your baby has achieved a good latch:3 If the latch still doesn’t seem right, here are a few tips to help you on your way:4 Once properly attached, your baby will drink quickly to stimulate the let-down reflex and then slow down as milk begins to flow. If you notice that your baby has not latched on properly or if the latch is painful, gently place your finger in the corner of their mouth and remove them from your breast when you see their mouth open, then try again.
With the right breastfeeding positions, newborn babies can be fed more comfortably, but there are other things to bear in mind. Here are a few things that can help when you’re trying out nursing positions.4
There you have it: the breastfeeding positions and tips to help you and your baby get a good latch during feedings. Remember that breastfeeding is a learning curve, so don’t be discouraged if you encounter obstacles or challenges along the way, such as improper latching.
Enjoy this special time with your baby and remember to consult with a doctor or lactation specialist with any questions or concerns you may have along the way.
1 Breastfeeding: the first few days, NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding/the-first-few-days 2 How to breastfeed: breastfeeding positions, NHS Start for Life. https://www.nhs.uk/start4life/baby/feeding-your-baby/breastfeeding/how-to-breastfeed/breastfeeding-positions/ 3 How do I know if my baby is properly latched?, NHS YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKVxVfCGHqw 4 Breastfeeding: positioning and attachment, NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding/positioning-and-attachment/
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