HealthPartners - Preparing for childbirth

LATCH-ON Latch-on, or latch, is the term used to describe how your baby’s mouth attaches to your breast to feed. Babies use their sense of smell to find your breast but may need some help learning how to latch on and suck.

• Follow your baby’s lead; when you see their chin hit your breast you may see them open their mouth and latch on • Stay calm and relaxed as your baby seeks your breast and follows their instinct to feed CLUSTER FEEDING Cluster feeding is when your baby wants to breastfeed more often at certain times of the day. It usually happens in the evening, although all babies behave differently. Cluster feeding is very common in newborns. Because so many feedings may work your body overtime, here are some things to keep in mind: • You’re doing nothing wrong — this is normal • Make sure you are getting enough to eat and drink • Make yourself a nest for the day and rest between feedings • Talk to other parents who’ve experienced this issue • Reach out for help and support when you need it • Let your baby breastfeed whenever they want to • Don’t give your baby formula; it may decrease your milk supply • Babies who are fed formula still have fussy periods • Know that this fussy period is a normal stage in a baby’s life

SCAN + PLAY

When you find a comfortable position and your baby can successfully latch on to your breast, breastfeeding is a great way to bond with your baby. When your baby latches on to your breast correctly, both your nipple and a large portion of the areola (dark area around the nipple) will be inside the baby’s mouth. This gives them more milk and helps prevent your nipple from feeling sore. • Run nipple lightly across baby’s upper lip • Aim nipple toward the roof of their mouth • Pull baby onto your breast quickly and gently Signs of a good latch • Nipple and much of the areola are in baby’s mouth • Baby’s lips are turned out • Baby’s chin is pressed firmly against the lower part of your breast • Baby’s nose is away from your breast • Baby stays on your breast • Don’t let baby suck only on your nipple; it will hurt BABY-LED LATCH (BIOLOGICAL NURSING) This leaning-back position is comfortable and lets you both follow your natural instincts. It may also help your baby get a better latch and help you relax. Choose a bed or couch where you can comfortably lean back with good support for your head, shoulders, and arms. How to do it • Let your baby snuggle into your chest • Place the front of your baby’s body on the front of your body • Let your baby’s cheek rest close to your breast; they may start squirming and bobbing their head toward your nipple • Support the baby’s neck and shoulders with one hand and their hips with the other Proper latch guidelines • Line up baby’s nose to your nipple

104 Your Guide to Labor and Birth