Breastfeeding is an important part of caring for your baby, but it should not be consistently painful. If you experience nipple or breast pain while breastfeeding, one of the first things to check is your baby’slatch and feeding position.
In this guide, Dr. Swati Hajare, Lactation Consultant at Momstory Manipal Hospital, explains what a good latch looks like, how to identify an improper latch, and what you can do if breastfeeding is painful.
What Is a Latch in Breastfeeding?
A latch refers to the way your baby attaches their mouth to your breast during breastfeeding.
A good latch allows the baby to take in an adequate portion of the breast and helps make breastfeeding more comfortable for the mother. An improper or shallow latch can increase the chances of nipple pain and discomfort.
What Does a Good Breastfeeding Latch Look Like?
There are a few important signs of a good and deep latch.
1. The Baby’s Chin Should Be Positioned Forward
When bringing your baby towards the breast, position the baby so that the chin is forward. This helps the baby open the mouth widely and attach properly to the breast.
2. The Baby Should Open the Mouth Wide
A deep latch involves a wide mouth opening. The angle of the baby’s mouth should be greater than approximately 120 degrees.
You do not need to measure this angle. Instead, look for a wide-open mouth when your baby attaches to the breast.
3. The Baby Should Take in More Than Just the Nipple
A common misconception is that the baby should latch only onto the nipple.
In a good latch, the baby should take in a substantial portion of the areola, which is the darker circular area surrounding the nipple.
The baby should not latch only at the base of the nipple. A deeper attachment allows the baby to take in more of the breast tissue and can help reduce nipple discomfort.
4. The Baby’s Lips Should Be Flanged Out
During a good latch:
- The upper lip should be turned outward.
- The lower lip should also be turned outward.
- The baby’s mouth should remain wide open.
This helps the baby take in more of the areola and maintain a deeper latch.
Why Does Breastfeeding Hurt?
Breastfeeding pain can often be associated with an improper or shallow latch.
If the baby is not positioned correctly or is attaching mainly to the nipple, it may cause nipple soreness and make breastfeeding uncomfortable.
Therefore, if breastfeeding suddenly becomes painful or remains painful during every feed, checking the baby’s position and latch is an important first step.
How Can You Correct a Painful Latch?
If you experience pain while breastfeeding, you can first try correcting your baby’s feeding position and latch.
Make sure:
- Your baby’s chin is positioned appropriately.
- The baby opens their mouth widely.
- The baby takes in a substantial portion of the areola.
- The baby’s lips are flanged outward.
- The baby is not attached only to the nipple.
Small changes in positioning can sometimes make breastfeeding considerably more comfortable.
When Should You Consult a Lactation Consultant?
If correcting the baby’s position and latch does not resolve the pain, it is advisable to consult a lactation consultant.
A professional can observe a feeding session, assess the baby’s latch and positioning, and guide you on appropriate corrections.
Persistent nipple or breast pain should not be ignored, especially if it is making breastfeeding difficult.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding should ideally be comfortable for both the mother and baby. If you experience pain during breastfeeding, start by checking your baby’s position and latch.
A deep latch, wide mouth opening, proper positioning and adequate attachment to the areola can help improve breastfeeding comfort.
If the pain continues despite correcting the latch, seek guidance from a lactation consultant or healthcare professional.
For breastfeeding support and professional guidance, you can consult the lactation team at Momstory Manipal Hospital.
