SIGNS OF A GOOD LATCH:
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Baby’s chin is touching the breast
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No pain, but deep pulling sensation
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Breasts become soft after a feeding session
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There is movement by the jaw (in front of the ear) as baby feeds
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Asymmetric latch (lower lip covers more of areola than upper lip)
SIGNS OF A LATCH THAT MAY NEED ADJUSTMENT:
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A “clicking” sound when baby suckles
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Nipple has a “lipstick” shape when it comes out of baby’s mouth
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Latch is painful
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Baby has the nipple but none of the areola in mouth
STEPS TO INITIATE LATCH:
Step 1: Hold breast and aim baby’s nose to nipple (Baby's entire body should be facing the nipple, not just the head)
Step 2: “Tickle” baby’s upper lip/nose with the nipple
Step 3: Wait for baby to gape open widely
Step 4: Push baby onto breast (Do not "push breast" into baby's mouth)
For a great video depicting a good latch, follow the link to the "First Droplets" website: https://firstdroplets.com/
