Breastfeeding should be a comfortable and nourishing experience for both mom and baby. Achieving a deep latch is essential for pain-free nursing and effective milk transfer. Here are holistic, practical latching techniques to make breastfeeding smoother and more enjoyable.
Achieve a Deeper Latch
Sit semi-reclined or fully reclined: Leaning back encourages a natural latch and allows gravity to help with positioning.
Bring baby to you: Instead of leaning forward, sit back and bring baby close.
Hold your breast well for compression: Gently compressing the breast can help baby get a deeper latch.
Align baby's chin to the lower part of the breast: This allows baby to anchor onto the breast properly.
Best Breastfeeding Positions for a Deep Latch
Cross-cradle hold or football hold: These positions encourage a wide mouth opening and deeper latch, reducing nipple pain.
Support baby’s neck and hold the breast: Use one hand to support the base of baby's neck and the other to hold your breast.
Utilize the Rooting Reflex
Babies are born with a natural rooting reflex, which lasts from birth until around 4-6 months. Stimulate it by brushing your nipple against the side of baby's cheek or mouth, prompting baby to turn towards the breast and open wide.
C-Hold & U-Hold for Breast Positioning
C-Hold: Best for upright nursing positions, using fingers to form a "C" shape around the breast.
U-Hold: Ideal for side-lying positions, shaping the breast like a "U" for easier access.
The Flipple Technique for an Optimal Latch
Flip the nipple slightly upward before inserting it into baby’s mouth.
Align your thumb or finger above the nipple with baby’s top lip.
Press downward to encourage the nipple to point upward.
Allow baby to naturally move toward the nipple.
Let the bottom of your areola touch baby’s bottom lip first.
Baby’s mouth will naturally open wide.
Avoid pushing the nipple into baby’s mouth.
Release your fingers so the nipple gently flips into baby’s mouth.
Additional Holistic Latching Tips
Lean back when latching: A relaxed posture helps baby latch deeply.
Massage baby's jawline and chin: Gentle circular motions can help release tension and improve latch.
Compress your breast: Flattening the breast slightly can help baby get a deeper latch.
Tickle baby’s lips with the nipple: This encourages baby to open wide.
Aim the nipple just above baby’s top lip: Helps baby reach for the nipple and open wide.
Bring chin to breast first: Then, anchor baby’s mouth onto the breast.
Use your finger to pull down baby’s bottom lip: Ensuring a better latch.
Tilt baby’s head back slightly: Helps baby open wider.
Infant massage, chiropractic care, and craniosacral therapy: These holistic approaches help relieve body tension and improve latch efficiency.
Join Our Holistic Infant Massage Virtual Class!
Learn more about baby massage techniques that can improve your baby's latch and overall breastfeeding experience. Visit www.holisticlivingwellness.com for more details.
Breastfeeding is a journey, and with these holistic latching techniques, you can make it a peaceful and nourishing experience for both you and your baby!
By: MiKaylan Cushing, CLC/CNMI
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