How to latch your baby: A guide to chest/breastfeeding 

Hi! If you’re here, you’re probably facing the wonderful and sometimes challenging journey of breastfeeding/chestfeeding (or whatever term you prefer) your baby. Trust us, many of us here at Ergobaby know what it’s like and have been exactly where you are right now. Whether this is your first time or you’re welcoming another little family member, getting a newborn baby to latch properly can be tricky. That’s why today we want to share some practical tips and techniques to help you and your baby feel comfortable while feeding.

Latching on correctly – the basics

Before we go into detail, let’s talk about the basics. Breast/chestfeeding is a natural process, but it doesn’t always come naturally. One thing to focus on is getting little one’s initial latch correct. A good latch will ensure that your baby gets enough milk and that you have less to no discomfort.

Sign of good latch:

• Your baby’s mouth covers a large part of the areola below your nipple.
• You can see how your baby’s lips are turned outwards.
• You don’t feel any pain – just a gentle tug.
• You can hear and see your baby swallowing.
• Your baby’s chest and stomach are resting flat against your body.

Sign of poor latch:

• Your baby’s mouth does not open wide enough.
• You feel pain or a pinch on the nipple.
• Your baby’s cheeks are indented when sucking.
• Baby seems frustrated.
• You can hear baby swallowing air (it often makes a clicking sound).
• Your nipple is misshapen or flattened.

Preparation, preparation, preparation!

Preparation is everything! Here are a few tips to help you:

1. Seek out support before baby’s birth: Attend a course or join a group. Knowledge is power and knowing what to expect can alleviate many fears.
2. Nipple care: Have a lanolin cream on hand to prevent dryness and cracks if they occur.
3. Mental preparation: Try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Like we said, breast/chestfeeding is the most natural thing in the world but doesn’t always come naturally for every parent or every baby. Be kind to yourself.
4. Find a quiet, cosy place: Especially at the beginning, it is helpful to have a quiet place to feed where it is comfortable and you are well supported. A nursing pillow helps to support your back and keep your baby ergonomically positioned.

Breastfeeding positions to help baby latch correctly

The right position can make all the difference if you want to breast/chestfeed correctly. Some tried and tested breastfeeding positions are:

Cradle hold:

• Hold your baby’s head in the crook of your arm.
• Make sure your baby’s tummy is facing you. 
• Rest your feet on a stool to stop yourself leaning forward and making your back ache.

Rugby hold:

• Place your baby under your arm, like a rugby ball.
• Ideal for parents with a larger chest or who have had an abdominal birth/caesarean section.

Side lying:

• Lie on your side with your baby facing you.
• Ideal for night feeds and for recovery after an abdominal birth/caesarean section.

Getting a good latch

So far so good. But how do you get baby to latch correctly? Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Position baby close: Bring baby close to you, tummy to tummy.
2. Nose to nipple: Point your baby’s nose towards your nipple.
3. Wait for the wide open mouth: Gently tickle your baby’s upper lip with your nipple until they open their mouth wide, like a yawn.
4. Bring baby to your chest: Quickly bring baby to your chest (not the other way round).
5. Check their latch: Make sure your baby’s mouth covers most of your areola and that their lips are turned outwards.

Solving common feeding problems

Breast/chestfeeding can come with challenges. Please always contact your midwife or ideally a qualified breastfeeding counsellor or IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) if you have any problems. The most common problems and solutions are:

Sore nipples:

• First things first, check baby’s latch. If you feel pain, carefully release the vacuum by gently inserting your little finger into the corner of baby’s mouth and try again.
• Use nipple cream or some of your milk to keep them moisturised.

Sensitivity in your nipples can be normal at the beginning. Listen to your body, get support sooner rather than later if you need it, and over time, your breasts/chest will become less sensitive!

Engorgement:

What is engorgement? Engorgement is when your breasts/chest becomes too full of milk. Whether that’s because your supply is coming in quickly or because your baby needs to nurse, it can be incredibly painful. Here are some tips: 

• Breastfeed frequently and on demand.
• Express small amounts of milk by hand to relieve the pressure but try and avoid pumping as this can increase your supply and exacerbate the issue.
• Use warm compresses before breastfeeding and cold compresses afterwards to reduce swelling.

Low supply:

• Feed often and make sure that baby latches correctly.
• Consider pumping – under the direction of a trained counsellor or IBCLC.
• Stay hydrated and try to eat a balanced diet.

And remember, it’s hard to know the quantity of milk your baby is consuming so often people believe they have low supply when really they don’t. If your baby is gaining weight well on your milk alone, has a normal number of wet and dirty nappies etc. then your supply is likely just fine. You can find more tips on increasing milk production on this blog.

Overactive milk let-down reflex:

A letdown reflex happens when the nipples are stimulated by baby’s sucking, but can also be stimulated by babies crying or going too long without nursing. It feels like a tingling sensation and can also be accompanied by uterine cramps. Some people will have a very strong letdown which can overwhelm the baby and cause reflux. Here are some tips to help: 

• Breastfeed in a reclined position to slow down the flow of milk.
• Let the initial fast flow spray into a cloth before latching your baby. 

When to get help

If you feel overwhelmed or your baby is not latching on properly despite these tips, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Midwives and breastfeeding counsellors are valuable contacts. Many hospitals, GP practices and local children’s centres also offer support groups. Check La Leche League for resources or to connect with a local IBCLC. 

Did you also know that we offer a range of products designed to make breastfeeding easier? From form-fitting nursing pillows for perfect support during feeding to baby carriers that allow you to feed on the go. All these products have been developed with the comfort of you and baby in mind. Feeding in a baby carrier? Yes, you read that right. It works like a charm. You can find step-by-step instructions here. By the way: the day-to-day use of a baby carrier can even increase your chances of breast/chestfeeding success in the end! 

Breast/chestfeeding is a journey with ups and downs. Celebrate yourself and your efforts, always and everywhere! Whatever your journey looks like. Keep these tips on for encouraging a secure latch handy and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You can do it!