A New Beginning

Latch-On

• Line up your baby’s chest with your chest and their nose near your nipple. • Support and gently lift

When your baby “latches on,” they’ll have all of the nipple and good amount of the areola in their mouth. This will give your baby more milk and make the feeding more comfortable. Remember: A good latch is a learned response. Be patient with yourself and your baby.

the breast. Make sure your fingers are away from the areola.

SIGNS OF A PROPER LATCH-ON • Deep latch with the

• Lightly stroke your baby’s upper lip with your nipple in a downward motion. • Lightly stroke your baby’s lower lip, pausing to help their mouth open wide.

• Observe for long jaw motion

nipple and some or all of the areola is in their mouth

• Listen for swallowing • After your milk volume increases you will hear swallow sounds like “ca-ca”

• Lips flanged or turned out

• Baby stays on breast • No biting or pinching type pain

• Your baby’s head should be slightly tilted back. • Their chin should come to your breast first. • Aim your nipple toward the roof of their mouth. • Be patient until they open their mouth wide. Let them take the lead.

BABY-LED LATCH This is based on a semi-reclined position that is comfortable for both you and your baby. With the baby-led latch position, you are encouraging your own, as well as your baby’s, natural instincts. With very few rules, this position may help your baby to get a better latch and you to relax as well. Comfortably recline with good support of your head, shoulders and arms. • Allow your baby to snuggle into your chest. Gravity will allow them to stay close. • Place the front of your baby’s body so it is touching the front of your body. • Let your baby’s cheek rest close to your breast. • Offer your baby help when needed. • Relax and enjoy your new baby!

• When they open wide, quickly and gently bring them toward your breast. • Their mouth should cover

your nipple and more of the lower portion of the areola.

• If you need to remove your baby from your breast, slide your finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth to break the suction.

Helpful Tips

• Prior to feeding, wash your hands, find a comfortable location, and decide on a feeding position. • Skin-to-skin contact can be used prior to feeding or during a feeding session if your baby isn’t ready to latch. • Gently massage each breast and hand express until milk is visible.

SCAN + PLAY

102

A New Beginning