Why is my deep latch still pinching?

Understanding the Pinching Sensation During Deep Latch
Experiencing a pinching sensation while breastfeeding, even with what you believe to be a deep latch, can be frustrating and painful. This issue often stems from a few common factors that can affect the latch quality and overall breastfeeding experience.
The Importance of a Deep Latch
A deep latch is crucial for effective breastfeeding. It not only ensures that the baby is able to extract milk efficiently but also helps prevent nipple damage and discomfort for the breastfeeding parent. When a baby latches deeply, they take in a significant portion of the areola, not just the nipple, which is essential for a comfortable feeding experience.
Common Causes of Pinching Sensation
1. Incorrect Latch Technique: Even if you think your baby is latched deeply, they might still be latching incorrectly. A proper latch involves the baby’s mouth being wide open and taking in a good portion of the breast. If the latch is shallow, it can lead to pinching and pain.
2. Nipple Positioning: The positioning of the nipple in the baby’s mouth is critical. If the nipple is not positioned correctly, it can cause discomfort. The baby should ideally have their lips flanged outward, creating a seal that prevents pinching.
3. Baby’s Oral Anatomy: Sometimes, anatomical issues such as tongue tie or lip tie can affect how well a baby can latch. These conditions can restrict the movement of the tongue or lip, making it difficult for the baby to achieve a deep latch.
4. Breast Shape and Size: The shape and size of your breasts can also influence how your baby latches. Some breast shapes may require different techniques to achieve a deep latch, and understanding your unique anatomy can help in finding the right position.
Tips for Achieving a Comfortable Deep Latch
To alleviate the pinching sensation, consider the following strategies:
– Repositioning: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions. Some parents find that positions like the rugby hold or side-lying can help achieve a better latch.
– Latching Techniques: Before latching, ensure your baby’s mouth is wide open. You can stimulate this by gently rubbing your nipple on their lips. When they open wide, bring them to the breast rather than leaning forward.
– Consult a Lactation Expert: If the pinching persists, it may be beneficial to consult a lactation consultant. They can provide personalized guidance and check for any anatomical issues that might be affecting the latch.
Conclusion
A pinching sensation during breastfeeding, even with a deep latch, can be a sign of underlying issues that need addressing. By understanding the mechanics of a proper latch and being open to adjustments, you can work towards a more comfortable and effective breastfeeding experience. If challenges continue, seeking professional help can provide the support needed to ensure both you and your baby are comfortable during feeding.

Why can’t my baby get a deep latch?

The farther away your baby’s lower jaw is from the base of your nipple, the more breast tissue your baby will be able to take into his mouth. This helps to get a deeper latch. Chin planted on the breast. If your baby’s chin is not touching your breast, your baby will often turn his head searching for your breast.

How do I get my baby to open wide for deep latch?

Get your baby to open wide.
Touch or rub your nipple on the skin between your baby’s nose and lips. When this happens, your baby should open wide (like a yawn) with the tongue down.

How do you fix a pinching latch?

If your baby latches just on the tip of your nipple or it hurts, gently put a clean finger in your baby’s mouth to break the latch, then try again.

Why does a baby keep unlatching and relatching?

They become faster at latching and gain more ease during the process allowing them to begin to nurse in many different positions. If your baby is not in a position to latch well, they may pop on and off trying to adjust their latch for more comfortable and effective milk removal.

Can babies 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.

Can a deep latch still hurt?

Causes of Sore Nipples. Sometimes babies latch deeply, but slide down the nipple during the feed—watch for more distance between his nose and your breast. If this happens, break the suction and re-latch your baby, being sure that he is well supported. Tongue-tie can also cause sore nipples.

How do I get my baby to stop pinching while breastfeeding?

If you don’t like the behavior, give baby a toy or something else to hold while at the breast or cover the other breast with a blanket or your shirt. Wear a necklace or scarf they can play with. Sing a song or read them a book to distract them. Don’t be too quick to hide baby’s hands. They do serve a purpose.

Can pinching nipples cause damage?

Pressure and stimulation are unlikely to cause lasting injury to the internal structure of the breast, but any type of trauma that causes scarring of the nipple and its surrounding tissue have the potential to cause complications with breastfeeding.

Why are my nipples sore even with a good latch?

If your baby is properly positioned and attached at the breast during feeds and your nipples are still sore, ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter for help. There may be an underlying problem, such as an infection like thrush.

Is it normal to feel pinching while breastfeeding?

If your nipple is pinched, flat, or a different shape than usual after you breastfeed, you may need to adjust baby’s latch. Visit your WIC breastfeeding expert for help. If you are in pain while breastfeeding, gently break the latch by inserting a clean finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth. Then try again.