Why Does Your Latch Hurt?

If you’ve been taught to stroke your nipple down your baby’s lips, compress your tissue, and quickly get it into their mouth, you’re not alone. But here’s the thing: this method often leads to discomfort because it’s missing one crucial step—getting your baby to open wide first.

The Missing Key: Cueing Your Baby to Open Wide

Your baby’s cue to open wide doesn’t come from their lips—it comes from their chin. When you stroke their lips, you’re triggering their brain to start sucking, which often results in them pulling your nipple into their mouth. This can lead to a shallow, painful latch.

Instead:

• Position your baby so their chin makes contact with your body first.
• Wait for them to open wide—think as big as a yawn.
• Once their mouth is open wide, guide them forward gently for a deeper latch.

The Cross-Cradle Position: A Game-Changer for Latching

If you’ve been using the cradle position (where the arm closest to your baby’s head supports them), consider trying the cross-cradle position instead. This positioning technique gives you better control and a clearer view of your baby’s face, allowing you to time the latch more effectively.

How to Set Up the Cross-Cradle Position

• Use the hand opposite your baby’s head to support their body.
• Place your hand on their back, not their head, allowing them the freedom to move naturally.
• If your baby needs head support, use your flat hand gently under their head.

The ABCs of Positioning for a Better Latch

To ensure your baby is set up for their best latch, remember these ABCs:

A is for Arms

Wrap your baby’s arms around your chest or breast, keeping their body close to yours. This encourages deep contact and positions their chin properly.

B is for Belly

Your baby’s belly should face your belly, creating full body support and aligning them for a more comfortable latch.

C is for Chin

Your baby’s chin should make contact first, ideally just below your areola. This cue helps their brain prompt a wide gape rather than initiating sucking prematurely.

Step-by-Step: How to Latch Your Baby 

1. Position Your Baby’s Chin: Slide your baby lower on your body so their chin touches your chest or breast before their lips reach your nipple.
2. Wait for the Wide Gape: Be patient and wait for your baby to open their mouth wide.
3. Bring Them Forward: Use your supportive hand to guide them gently toward your body, ensuring they latch deeply.

Remember, this process might feel awkward at first, and that’s okay! With practice, it will become second nature.

Pro Tip: Practice When You’re Calm

Latching is a learned skill—for both you and your baby. Be kind to yourself and practice when you’re both calm and relaxed. Nobody has fed your baby like this before, and learning this new approach takes time and patience. You’re doing great.

Quick Recap: Your Path to a Pain-Free Latch

• Use the cross-cradle position for better control.
• Remember your ABCs of positioning: Arms, Belly, Chin.
• Wait for your baby to open wide, then guide them forward to latch.

With a little practice and the right positioning, you and your baby can enjoy a more comfortable feeding experience.