Embracing the right breastfeeding latch positions is pivotal for both mother and baby. A proper latch ensures effective milk transfer, minimises discomfort, and fosters an invaluable bond from the earliest moments together.
If you're a new mum wondering how to make your baby latch, you are not alone. Finding the right latch often involves a process of trial and error, but with patience and practice, you can find the breastfeeding position that works for you and your little one!
The Importance of a Proper Latch
At the heart of a smooth breastfeeding experience lies finding a comfortable position that ensures a good latch. It allows for efficient milk transfer, reduces the risk of nipple soreness, and enhances the bonding process between you and your baby, making each feed both nurturing and comfortable. This is especially crucial for nursing newborns, as establishing a good latch early on sets the foundation for a successful breastfeeding journey.
Breastfeeding Latch Positions
Breastfeeding is a process of learning and adaptation for both mum and baby. Finding a position that offers comfort and relaxation to you both is crucial for a fuss-free breastfeeding experience. Here are some positions that support effective latching and make feeding a positive experience:
Cradle Hold
The cradle hold is one of the most popular breastfeeding positions because it works for babies of all ages, including newborns, and offers comfort and closeness. If you’re choosing to use this position, we recommend sitting in a comfy chair with armrests or placing a pillow on your lap so your arm does not get fatigued. Alternatively, you can have your baby in a sling strapped across your body.
How to get into this breastfeeding position:
- Cradle your baby using the arm on the same side you plan to nurse from.
- Position your baby's head in the crook of your elbow, ensuring your baby is facing towards your breast.
- Support your breast gently with your free hand, adopting either a U-shape or C-shape hold beneath it.
- Encourage your baby towards your breast, ensuring their head and body are in a straight line, without any twist at the neck.
While breastfeeding in this position, it’s important to keep an eye on your baby’s head to ensure it is always supported. This might not be an issue while your baby is still young, but it might become more challenging as your baby grows older and becomes more curious about their environment.
Cross-Cradle Hold
The cross-cradle hold is an excellent choice for nursing newborns, offering enhanced control over your baby's head to ensure correct latching. For maximum comfort, we suggest settling into a chair equipped with armrests and a supportive back, allowing you to draw your baby close without having to bend over.
How to get into this nursing position:
- Position your baby across your torso, ensuring belly-to-belly alignment.
- Use the arm opposite the breast you're nursing from to cradle your baby. That is, if nursing from the right breast, use your left arm, and vice versa.
- Gently cradle the back of your baby's head in the palm of your hand. Use your other hand to support your breast from below in a U-shaped hold.
- Carefully bring your baby's mouth towards your breast to latch.
Football Hold
The football hold, sometimes known as the clutch hold, is particularly beneficial for infants who are still developing head control. This breastfeeding position can also be especially helpful for individuals with larger breasts or flat nipples, as it provides more comfort for both mums and babies.
It is also recommended if you're recovering from a C-section, as it keeps your baby's weight away from your healing incision.
How to get into this breastfeeding position:
- Position your baby at your side, tucking them under your arm with your elbow slightly bent.
- Use the palm of your hand to cradle your baby's head, supporting the base of their neck. Let your baby's back rest along your forearm, aligning them with your nipple. A pillow placed under your arm and baby can provide extra support.
- With your free hand, gently hold your breast in a C-shaped grip.
- Encourage your baby to latch onto your breast.
When using this position to breastfeed, ensure there's a small gap between your baby's chin and chest, facilitating easier swallowing and breathing. This precaution helps maintain a comfortable and good latch.
Lying Down Position
In this setup, both you and your baby recline side by side, facing one another. Opting for a side-lying position can be especially comforting during rest periods or for night-time feedings. It's also particularly beneficial for mothers who are in the postpartum recovery phase.
How to get into this breastfeeding position:
- Position yourself on your side, using pillows for added support behind your back and beneath your head.
- Gently turn your baby towards your breast, cradling them with one hand.
- Use your free hand to guide your breast, gently bringing your nipple to your baby's lips.
- After achieving a latch, use your arm to prop your head up and the other to snugly hold your baby close to you.
For feeding from the opposite breast, you might elevate your baby with a pillow's assistance. Alternatively, you can switch sides, mirroring the initial setup for the other breast.
Given the intimate nature of this position, monitoring your baby's latch might be more challenging. Hence, it is usually a preferred choice once you and your baby have already grown accustomed to breastfeeding together.
Signs Of A Good Breastfeeding Latch
A correct latch is easily recognised by the comforting sounds of your baby swallowing, the steady rhythm of their sucking, and the mutual relaxation you both share during these moments.
As you try out different breastfeeding positions, you should also take note of how your little one responds and how you feel. If you find a sense of ease together, you've discovered a good match. But remember, it's perfectly okay to switch things up and try a new position if the previous one doesn't feel quite right for you – your comfort matters too!
Get Support For Common Latching Issues
It's normal to face some hurdles when finding the correct breastfeeding position. However, with patience and practice, all mothers can find the right positions to ensure a comfortable and fuss-free feeding experience.
However, if you're facing persistent challenges, you can consider consulting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Experienced lactation consultants will be able to help you overcome a host of challenges from, bottle feeding issues to difficulties with power pumping. Support from professionals like those at Hegen Lactation Centre can provide the guidance needed to ensure a positive breastfeeding experience for both you and your little one!