Signs of a GOOD latch

If you are going to breast feed your child properly, it is important to watch for these:

Flanged lips (top and bottom) (fished out like fish lips)

Tongue is over the lower gum line

Sequential suckling

Ear movement with suckle

Circular movement of jaw up to the temporal area

Audible swallowing

At least 1” of breast tissue beyond nipple is in babies mouth

Chin is angled up into the breast

Ear, shoulder and hip are all in line – regardless of positioning

Baby stays on the breast for at least 10 minutes Nipple is round and elongated after feeding :Looks like a nipple just a little elongated. NOT mishapen.

Nipple does not slip out of mouth when baby pauses

Pain is the #1 sign of something being wrong with breastfeeding. Many people have the false impression breastfeeding will/should hurt. This is absolutely false. I never had not one moment of pain with my first daughter. I had some discomfort during engorgement but not issues with her breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding pain: Think you might have a problem?

Want to learn more about breastfeeding in an easy to watch DVD? Here is a great one by a board certified lactation consultant.

Back from Good Latch to Breastfeeding Positions page

Back from Good latch to askthelactationconsultant.com