How to fix a shallow breastfeeding latch?

Understanding the Importance of a Good Latch
Breastfeeding is often heralded as a natural process, yet it can present challenges, particularly for new mothers. One of the most common issues is a shallow latch, which can lead to discomfort for the mother and inadequate milk transfer for the baby. A proper latch is crucial not only for the baby’s nourishment but also for the mother’s comfort and overall breastfeeding success.
Signs of a Shallow Latch
A shallow latch typically occurs when the baby latches onto just the tip of the nipple rather than taking in a good portion of the areola. Signs that indicate a shallow latch include:
– Pain during breastfeeding: If nursing feels painful, it may be a sign that the baby is not latched on deeply enough.
– Chomping or biting: If the baby seems to be chewing on the nipple rather than sucking, this is another indicator of a shallow latch.
– Ineffective milk transfer: If the baby is not gaining weight or seems unsatisfied after feedings, it may be due to an inadequate latch.
Techniques to Achieve a Deeper Latch
1. Positioning Matters: The way you hold your baby can significantly impact their latch. Ensure that your baby is positioned tummy-to-tummy with you, with their head and body aligned. This alignment helps them to open their mouth wide and latch on more effectively.
2. Encourage a Wide Mouth: Before bringing your baby to the breast, gently stimulate their lips with your nipple to encourage them to open wide. When their mouth is open wide, quickly bring them to the breast, aiming for the lower lip to touch the areola first. This technique helps ensure they take in more of the breast.
3. Use Your Hand: Support your breast with your hand in a “C” shape, which can help guide your nipple into your baby’s mouth. This support can also help you control the angle and depth of the latch.
4. Break the Suction if Necessary: If your baby has latched shallowly, gently insert a clean finger into the corner of their mouth to break the suction. This allows you to reposition them for a better latch without causing pain or discomfort.
5. Practice Makes Perfect: Breastfeeding is a skill that takes time to master. It’s important to be patient and persistent. With practice, many mothers find that their babies naturally improve their latch over time.
Seeking Support
If you continue to struggle with a shallow latch, consider reaching out to a lactation consultant. These professionals can provide personalized guidance and support, helping you troubleshoot any issues and improve your breastfeeding experience. They can also offer techniques tailored to your specific situation, ensuring both you and your baby are comfortable and successful in your breastfeeding journey.
Conclusion
A shallow latch can be a frustrating hurdle in the breastfeeding experience, but with the right techniques and support, it can often be corrected. Remember, breastfeeding is a learning process for both mother and baby, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Embrace the journey, and know that with time and practice, a deeper latch is within reach.

How do you exercise a shallow latch?

Exercise 5: If a baby has a high or narrow palate and gags on the nipple or insists on a shallow latch, it may help to desensitize the palate. Begin by massaging Baby’s palate near the gum-line. Progressively massage deeper but avoid gagging Baby.

Can a lip tie cause a shallow latch?

Difficulty Latching – Infants with lip ties frequently have trouble correctly latching onto the breast or bottle. Shallow Latch – They can have a shallow latch, which makes it easy for them to fall off during meals.

Can a shallow latch be corrected?

Yes! Absolutely. Give her time to learn, but also you the same time to learn to place her and adjust her latch. That was a big one for me – you can somewhat correct a bad latch by gently untucking her lips if not flanged, and making sure when you put her on you press her towards you gently.

Do babies still get milk with a shallow latch?

PSA: babies can still transfer well with a shallow latch If you’re in doubt or struggling, see an LC and do a weighted feed before driving yourself crazy. But if you’re not uncomfortable and baby’s having enough wet and dirty diapers, you may not have to “correct” a shallow latch.

Can a baby gain weight with a shallow latch?

If a mother has an abundant supply, then sucking works just fine initially, and the baby will gain weight appropriately, even with a shallow latch.

What are four symptoms of failure to thrive?

Symptoms may include:

• Lack of appropriate weight gain.
• Irritability.
• Easily fatigued.
• Excessive sleepiness.
• Lack of age-appropriate social response (i.e., smile)
• Does not make vocal sounds.
• Delayed motor development.
• Learning and behavior difficulties later in childhood.

How do you get a deep latch lying down?

Tuck the arm you’re lying on under your head or pillow (ensuring your baby’s position isn’t altered by the pillow) and use your free arm to support and guide your baby’s head to your breast.

How to get baby to tilt head back to latch?

Are you holding your baby close to you, facing your breast? Supporting their neck, shoulders and back should allow them to tilt their head back and swallow easily. Always bring your baby to the breast and let them latch themselves.

What does a bad latch look like?

You’ll know your baby didn’t latch on properly if you see indentations in their cheeks when they suckle, hear clicking noises or notice their lips curled inward. They may also move their head frequently or not do any swallowing. Incorrect latching may also cause pain for you.

How can I help my baby get a deep latch?

You can pull the baby’s chin down while nursing to try to force a deeper latch. Another method is you can use your finger to sort of drag the top of your breast tissue back (making the top more shallow sometimes prompts the baby to deepen on the bottom side).