Signs of a Good Latch: How to Know Baby Is Latching Correctly

Why Latch Matters

A proper latch is the foundation of successful breastfeeding. When baby latches correctly, milk flows efficiently, your nipples stay healthy, and feeding is comfortable. Research consistently shows that latch quality is the single most important factor in preventing nipple pain and ensuring adequate milk transfer.

Visual Signs of a Good Latch

What You Should See

• Wide open mouth: Baby's mouth opens wide (140+ degrees) like a yawn before latching
• Flanged lips: Both upper and lower lips are turned outward, not tucked in
• Asymmetrical latch: More areola visible above baby's top lip than below the bottom lip
• Chin touching breast: Baby's chin is pressed firmly into the breast
• Nose free or barely touching: Nose should be clear or just brushing the breast
• Rounded cheeks: Cheeks appear full and rounded, not dimpled or sucked in
• Ears wiggling: You may see baby's ears move slightly with each suck

What You Should Hear

• Swallowing sounds: Soft "kuh" or gulping sounds, especially after milk comes in
• Rhythmic sucking pattern: Suck-swallow-breathe pattern, about one swallow per 1-2 sucks
• No clicking: Clicking or smacking sounds indicate latch breaking repeatedly

What You Should Feel

• Tugging, not pinching: A pulling sensation is normal; sharp pain is not
• Comfort after initial latch: Brief discomfort (10-15 seconds) may occur but should ease
• Breast softening: Breast feels softer after feeding
• Let-down sensation: Tingling, warmth, or fullness as milk releases

Signs of a Poor Latch

Watch for these red flags that indicate latch needs improvement:

• Pain throughout feeding: Beyond initial 15 seconds, pain indicates poor positioning
• Cracked or bleeding nipples: Damage suggests baby is compressing the nipple
• Misshapen nipples after feeding: Nipples should be round, not flattened, creased, or lipstick-shaped
• Clicking sounds: Baby is breaking suction repeatedly
• Dimpled cheeks: Indicates inefficient sucking pattern
• Baby slipping off frequently: Latch isn't secure
• Inadequate weight gain: Poor latch often means poor milk transfer
• Always hungry baby: Fussiness after feeds may indicate inefficient feeding

How to Achieve a Good Latch

Step-by-Step Technique

1. Position yourself comfortably: Sit upright with back support; use pillows to bring baby to breast level
2. Hold baby close: Baby's body should face yours, ear-shoulder-hip aligned
3. Support your breast: Use C-hold (thumb on top, fingers below) or U-hold
4. Nose to nipple: Align baby's nose with your nipple to encourage head tilt back
5. Wait for wide open mouth: Tickle baby's lips with nipple; wait for wide gape
6. Bring baby to breast: Quickly but gently bring baby onto breast, chin first
7. Aim nipple toward palate: Nipple should point toward roof of baby's mouth
8. Check and adjust: If painful, break suction with finger and try again

The Flipple Technique

For deeper latch, try the "flipple" method:

1. Shape your breast like a sandwich, matching baby's mouth orientation
2. Place nipple above baby's top lip
3. When mouth opens wide, roll baby onto breast bottom lip first
4. Use your thumb to flip the nipple into the roof of baby's mouth

Positions That Promote Good Latch

Laid-Back/Biological Nurturing

Research shows this position often produces the deepest, most comfortable latch:

• Recline at 45-65 degrees
• Place baby tummy-to-tummy on your chest
• Allow baby to self-attach using innate reflexes
• Gravity keeps baby in place

Cross-Cradle Hold

Ideal for newborns and learning to latch:

• Support baby with opposite arm from nursing breast
• Hand supports base of baby's head and neck
• Gives you control to guide latch

Football/Clutch Hold

Great for C-section recovery, large breasts, or twins:

• Baby tucked under your arm like a football
• Baby's feet toward your back
• Full view of baby's face for monitoring latch

Common Latch Challenges

Flat or Inverted Nipples

• Use breast shells between feeds
• Try reverse pressure softening before latching
• Nipple shields may help temporarily
• Hand express to draw nipple out before latching

Engorgement

• Express a little milk to soften areola first
• Use reverse pressure softening
• Apply cold compresses between feeds
• Feed frequently to relieve fullness

Tongue or Lip Tie

• Baby may have restricted tongue movement
• Look for heart-shaped tongue when crying
• Evaluation by trained provider recommended
• Release procedure may improve latch significantly

When Latch Looks Right But Still Hurts

Sometimes latch appears correct but pain persists. Consider:

• Vasospasm: Nipple turns white after feeding; treat with warmth
• Thrush: Yeast infection causing burning pain; both mom and baby need treatment
• Bacterial infection: May require antibiotics
• High palate in baby: May need positioning adjustments
• Strong let-down: Baby may clamp down to control flow

Evidence-Based Tips for Success

• Skin-to-skin: Promotes instinctive feeding behaviors
• Feed early and often: Before baby becomes desperately hungry
• Watch baby, not clock: Feeding cues include rooting, hand-to-mouth, lip smacking
• Don't suffer in silence: Early intervention prevents worsening problems
• Practice patience: Latch often improves as baby grows and gains muscle control

When to Seek Help

Contact a lactation consultant (IBCLC) if:

• Pain persists beyond the first week
• Nipples are damaged, cracked, or bleeding
• Baby isn't gaining weight appropriately
• Feeds consistently take longer than 45 minutes
• Baby seems frustrated at the breast
• You suspect tongue or lip tie

The Bottom Line

A good latch should feel like a gentle tug, not a painful clamp. While initial discomfort is common as your nipples adjust, persistent pain always warrants attention. Most latch issues are correctable with proper support—don't hesitate to reach out for help.

References: Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine protocols, Cochrane reviews on breastfeeding positioning, International Lactation Consultant Association guidelines.