Your baby’s ability to latch and breastfeed successfully is very much dependent on the positioning of your baby when it comes to feeding time. A good latch will help your baby to feed comfortably and efficiently, while a bad latch can cause your baby stress and even lead to them rejecting the breast altogether! If you have been struggling with trying to get your baby into a good latching position, here are some helpful tips…
Check Your Baby’s Position
Each breastfeeding position can be used for either single or double breastfeeding, and depends on your baby’s position and situation. The first thing you need to check is your baby’s position. If your baby is feeding from one breast only, they should be facing your unused breast. If your baby is feeding from both breasts, they should be facing away from your body. If your baby is in the correct latch positions, they can latch on successfully. However, if they are not in the correct position, you will need to correct their positioning before they can latch on successfully. You may need to reposition your baby several times before they latch on successfully, so don’t get frustrated or give up!
Use A Latching Tool
If you have tried repositioning your baby and they still cannot latch on successfully, then you may need to use a latching tool. A latching tool is a nipple shield that has soft edges and is designed to help your baby latch onto your breast and nipple with ease. Nipple shields can be used for as little as one feed or for as long as several weeks, but you should always speak to your healthcare provider before using them. If you are using a nipple shield, you can reposition your baby around it until they are in a good position. Once they are latched on, you can remove the nipple shield and allow your baby to feed naturally.
Check Your Baby’s Tummy
A baby’s tummy should be facing toward your breast during a single breastfeed. However, during double breastfeeding, your baby’s tummy should be facing away from your body. Babies often feed with their heads tilted back, and while this is normal and they are still getting milk, you should check their tummy position. If your baby’s tummy is facing toward your breast, they will not be able to latch on properly. Likewise, if your baby’s tummy is facing away from your body during double breastfeed, they will not be able to latch on properly. By checking your baby’s tummy position, you can make sure that they are in a good position to latch on and breastfeed successfully.
Check Your Breasts And Nipples
Your breasts and nipples are an important part of the latch, and you should check them to make sure everything is in order. First, make sure that your breasts are clean and free of any dirt or residue by washing them with warm water and soap. Next, make sure your nipples are positioned correctly by checking their direction. Your nipples should be facing your baby, and be flattened against your breast. If your nipples are positioned incorrectly, you can reposition them before your baby feeds by gently massaging the nipple and breast tissue toward your baby. If your nipples are too long, you can shorten them by pinching the base of the nipple.
Try Using A Breast Care Product Before Feeding
Some breast care products can be used before a feed to help your baby latch on more easily. Products like lanolin and coconut oil are often used to help moisturize your nipples, which makes it easier for your baby to latch on. Other products, like nipple cream, can help soothe your nipples, which can help you to stay relaxed during a feed. If you are struggling to latch your baby on, try applying a breast care product to your nipples before your baby feeds. This can help to soothe your nipples and make it easier for your baby to latch on.
Try Using A Traditional Latch-On Position
If your baby is having difficulty latching on, you can try using a traditional latch-on position. A traditional latch-on position is when your baby positions themselves above your breast, with their chest above your nipple. A traditional latch-on position is often best for mothers who have flat or inverted nipples. If you struggle with inverted or flat nipples and your baby is having difficulty latching on, try using a traditional latch-on position. By positioning your baby above your breast, your baby has a clear view of your nipple and their exact positioning. This can make it easier for your baby to latch on correctly and without any fuss!
Try Using A Continuous Latch-On Position
A continuous latch-on position is when your baby positions themselves below your breast, with their head resting on your body. A continuous latch-on position is often best for mothers with round or high nipples. If you have round or high nipples and your baby is having difficulty latching on, try using a continuous latch-on position. By positioning your baby below your breast, your baby’s natural sucking instincts will kick in, and they will be able to latch on correctly with ease. If your baby has a low latch, you can try repositioning them to a continuous latch-on position. This may take some time, but it’s worth it when your baby is finally latched on correctly!
Help Your Baby Find The Breasts By Moving Around
If your baby is having a lot of trouble latching on, you can try helping them to find your breasts by moving around. The best way to do this is to sit upright, with your back against a wall and your knees bent. Make sure that your baby is in a comfortable position, but with their head and chest above your nipple. Your baby will be able to see their surroundings better if they are in an upright position, making it easier for them to latch on. If your baby is above your nipple, they will have a clearer view of where to latch, which can make it easier for them to latch on successfully.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a wonderful experience for both you and your baby, but it can be difficult to get started. Getting your baby into a good latching position is the first step toward successful breastfeeding, and it can be difficult if your baby is struggling. If you have been struggling buxic with getting your baby into a good latching position, don’t give up! Try using some of these helpful tips to help your baby latch on correctly. With a bit of practice and patience, you and your baby will be breastfeeding like pros in no time!
