Is My Baby Latched?

When latching on your baby, use your nipple to tickle the center of your baby’s bottom lip. This will encourage him to open his mouth wide (like he is yawning). Aim your nipple slightly towards the roof of his mouth, bringing baby to you, chin first.

Good latch-on checkpoints for your baby include:

• His nose is nearly touching your breast, that is, no further away than a credit card edge

• His lips are flanged

• At least ½ inch of your breast around the base of your nipple is in his mouth.

If the latch is uncomfortable or painful, gently place your finger in the baby’s mouth, between his gums, to detach him and try again.

A baby who is offered the breast will suck without swallowing as he positions the nipple in his mouth and tells your breast he is ready for the milk to let down. When he begins to receive milk, you will see his jaw working all the way back to his ear. His temples will wiggle. You will also hear him swallowing, quickly at first, then more slowly, as his appetite is satisfied.

See the “Positioning” blog post for more information.