A baby's latch refers to how the baby attaches to the breast for feeding. It involves the baby taking the nipple and areola into their mouth to effectively draw milk.
Key Aspects of a Good Latch
Here's a breakdown of what constitutes a good latch:
- Asymmetrical Latch: More of the areola should be in the baby's mouth on the bottom than on the top. According to reference information dated 15-Oct-2023, a proper latch involves "more of the areola on the bottom is taken into baby's mouth than the top."
- Nipple Position: The nipple should be aimed towards the roof of the baby's mouth for comfortable and effective feeding. As the provided reference states, the nipple should be "aiming for the roof of baby's mouth."
- Wide Mouth: The baby's mouth needs to be opened wide to achieve a deep latch.
- Comfort: A good latch should not cause significant nipple pain. While nipple pain can result from many causes besides a poor latch, a painful latch is often indicative of an issue.
Troubleshooting Latch Issues
If you're experiencing latch problems, consider the following:
- Ensure a Wide Mouth: Encourage your baby to open their mouth wide before latching by gently brushing their lips with your nipple.
- Proper Positioning: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find one that works best for you and your baby.
- Seek Professional Help: Consult with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.
