The truth is new parents often have lots of questions about latching on while breastfeeding!

A good latch is a key part of making sure that you're comfortable while feeding and that your baby feeds properly. So, let’s run through what latching on means, cover how to achieve a comfortable breastfeeding latch, and discover how you can encourage your baby to latch deeper.

Latch on: Meaning

Latching on is the process of getting your little one to suckle around your nipple and areola so they can breastfeed. Think of your areola as a target for your baby’s mouth and try to get them right in the bullseye! They should press against this target to trigger the milk flow and establish a strong milk supply.

If your baby is latched on properly, breastfeeding shouldn’t cause you discomfort, and your nipples won't become cracked or painful.

How to get a good breastfeeding latch

Getting the hang of a good breastfeeding latch that’s comfortable for you both can be a little tricky at first. It can take time and perseverance to get it all going smoothly!

Don’t stress and let us talk you through how to get a good latch:

1. Let baby's head tilt back and brush your nipple against their lips.
2. Try and let your little one find your nipple on their own. Put them in a comfy position where the nipple is close to their mouth and gently guide them there.
3. Direct your nipple slightly above their top lip, and make sure their chin is not tucked down towards their chest.
4. Aim their bottom lip away from your nipple’s base.
5. Their lips should be turned outwards.
6. They should lean into your breast with their chin first, open their mouth wide, and then latch on.
7. Their chin should be firmly against your breast, with nothing against their nose.
8. Baby’s tongue should be able to reach as much of your breast as possible and the areola (the circular, pigmented area around your nipple) should be in their mouth as well.
9. Their cheeks should look rounded as they feed with a good latch.

Signs that your baby is latching on to your breast correctly

There are some signs to look out for that will let you know if your baby is latched on properly:

• Your baby’s lips should be flared out against your breast and not tucked in like they’re sucking on a straw. Remember, the gums and tongue do most of the work so your nipple should be deep into their mouth for a good breastfeeding latch.
• You should be able to hear or see them suck, swallow, and breathe in a steady pattern. Their chin and nose should be touching your breast, without squashing them.
• Breastfeeding shouldn’t be painful if everything is going to plan. If you’re experiencing pain in your breasts and especially your nipples, your baby might not be latched correctly and might be irritating your nipples.
• If your nipples are long and round after feeding, it’s likely that they were able to go deep into your baby’s mouth for a good feed. If you find that your nipple is flat or inverted, your baby may not have been able to get a good latch at that time.

Top breastfeeding latch tips

Getting a good breastfeeding latch can be difficult if you've got bigger boobs, but it should become easier with time. But if you’re finding it hard, try giving these breastfeeding latch tricks a try:

• If you’re struggling with getting a good latch, moving to a quiet place that you find calming can help. If you’re uncomfortable or stressed, your baby probably will be too.
• Hold your little one close and try using skin-to-skin contact to comfort them if they're feeling frustrated.
• Chat or sing to your baby as they feed to soothe them.
• It'll be easier to establish a deep latch if you feed your baby when they're calm and before they get too hungry.
• Try different breastfeeding positions to find which one works best for you both.

If these tips don’t help and you're still struggling to achieve a good latch or are concerned that your baby may be tongue-tied, consult your doctor or health visitor for advice.