How do you get a proper latch while breastfeeding?
Found good ideas on proper latching....Any other suggestions?
Good latch pointers from BABYZONE :
- Get as much help as you can when you are in the hospital from your nurse and/ or lactation consultant. Have them show you how to position yourself and the baby. Ask them to check on you several times to make sure you are latching well.
- Before each feeding, make sure you are comfortable: Empty your bladder, get some water for sipping, and take your time getting into position.
- To improve the latch, make sure Baby is awake and ready to nurse before feeding. Start by un-swaddling her and changing her diaper. Now she is ready to feed.
- Your baby's mouth needs to be open wide for a proper latch. You can tickle her upper lip with your nipple to get her mouth to open. Once her mouth is open, bring her into your breast.
- A good latch should feel comfortable—like a strong tug or pull. If the latch feels like she is pinching or biting you, remove her from the breast by breaking the suction with your finger and re-latch.
- Check to see that your baby's lips are flanged out and that her mouth is back on the areola—not just grasping the nipple.
- You want to make sure your baby is really drinking at the breast and not just nuzzling. Nuzzling is fine—just make sure that she is drinking first (listen for swallows) to insure that she is getting enough to eat. If she is just nuzzling or suckling when you think she is eating, she will probably come off the breast and not be satisfied.


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