Google Translate Disclaimer

Translation on this website is provided by Google Translate, a third-party automated translator tool. The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of translations performed by Google Translate, or for any issues or damages resulting from its use.

boss-fight-free-high-quality-stock-images-photos-photography-teddy-bears-crib
print header

Latching

A proper latch helps your baby get enough breastmilk to satisfy hunger and stimulates your breasts to produce milk. A deep latch should be comfortable and your nipples should be the same shape before and after a feed. Breastfeeding should not be painful or cause damage to your nipples.


Latch Image - Nose to Nipple
Nose to Nipple

Latch image- Wait for open mouth
Wait for open mouth

Latch Image - Chin on Breast first
Chin on breast first

  • Choose a breastfeeding position that is comfortable.
  • Help your baby get into a position so their nose is at the level of your nipple.
  • Tuck your baby’s body in close to your body, tummy-to-mommy.
  • Support baby’s shoulders and neck. Keep your hand away from the back of baby’s head.
  • Cup your breast with your hand. Keep your fingers and thumb away from the nipple and areola (darker part of your breast).
  • Touch baby’s upper lip with your nipple.
  • Bring baby to your breast when their mouth is wide open and their head is slightly tilted back.
  • Your baby’s chin will touch the breast first.
  • The nipple and a large amount of breast could be in your baby’s mouth.
  • Do not force your baby onto the breast. If fussy, calm your baby by holding them upright and then try again.
  • If you need to take baby off the breast, it is important to break the suction first. To break the suction, put a clean finger gently into the corner of baby’s mouth. Then remove your baby from your breast.
  • Your baby’s mouth is opened wide and filled with breast, not just the nipple. The lips are curled out.
  • Your baby’s cheeks appear to be full and rounded and not dimpling in.
  • More areola may be visible above the infant's upper lip than below.
  • Your baby’s head is tilted back slightly.
  • While baby is actively sucking and swallowing you feel a strong tug that is not painful.
  • Breastfeeding begins with little sucks that become deep and slow.
  • You may hear gulping sounds or quiet sounds like “ca” or “eh” when the baby swallows.
  • Your baby’s ears will move during swallowing.
  • You should not hear “clicking” or “smacking” with a good latch.
  • Your baby’s mouth does not slip off the breast.
  • Your baby finishes breastfeeding looking relaxed, sleepy and content.
  • Your nipples are the same shape and colour as before feeding. Sometimes your nipple may be elongated, but not pinched or compressed.
  • Your breasts feel softer and less full.
  • You can put expressed breastmilk on your nipples and areolas. Let them air dry.
  • Change breast pads when they are wet.
  • Avoid harsh soaps when washing breasts.

Watch:

Baby Led Latching

Latching Your Baby

Review:

Breastfeeding Matters (PDF 6.72 MB) English/Francais


Did you find what you were looking for today?
What did you like about this page?
How can we improve this page?
Page
Feedback

If you have any questions or concerns that require a response, please contact Health Connection directly.

Thanks for your feedback.
Failed to submit comment. Please try submitting again or contact us at the Health Unit.
Comment already submitted ...