FeedingReading time: 5 minutes

How to Properly Latch Your Baby to the Breast

CategoryFeeding
How to Properly Latch Your Baby to the Breast

Medically reviewed by pediatrician and perinatal psychologist Polina Kizino

Proper latching makes breastfeeding more comfortable and helps prevent pain. Your baby’s mouth should be wide open, the latch deep, and the lips flanged outward. Choose a comfortable position, support your back, and try to relax. If your baby’s cheeks sink in, feeding is painful, or you hear clicking sounds — stop and try again. Consult your paediatrician if needed.

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What’s Inside

Quick takeaways

  • A correct latch ensures comfortable feeding: baby's mouth is wide open, lower lip is turned outward, more areola is visible above, and swallowing occurs without clicking sounds.
  • Main positions: cradle hold, football hold, side-lying — choose what works best for you and your baby.
  • Warning signs: pain during feeding, sunken cheeks, clicking sounds — pause feeding and latch the baby again.
  • Signs of fullness: baby releases the breast, relaxes, and sucking slows down.
  • Comfort tips: use a pillow to support your back and arms, drink water during feeding, and feed in a quiet environment with dim lighting.
  • Consult a lactation specialist if you can't correct the latch or if pain persists.

Create a Comfortable Environment Before Feeding

Find a quiet place and get comfortable — remember, you'll be in this position for at least 15–20 minutes.

What to do:

  • Wash your hands
  • Prepare a glass or a bottle of water for yourself
  • Have a towel or cloth handy
  • Sit in a comfortable chair or on a bed with back support
  • Use a nursing pillow if needed
  • Expose your breast

Position Your Baby for a Good Latch

  • Find a comfortable position and relax your shoulders
  • Align your baby's ear, shoulder, and hip in a straight line
  • Aim your nipple at your baby's nose
  • Wait for your baby to open their mouth wide
  • Quickly and confidently bring your baby to the breast
  • Ensure a proper latch

Check for a Proper Latch

An improper latch can lead to restless and prolonged feeding, insufficient milk intake, and sore nipples.

Signs of a good latch:

  • Baby's mouth is wide open, as if yawning
  • Lower lip is turned outward
  • Chin touches the breast
  • Cheeks are rounded, not sunken
  • Nose is free, not pressed against the breast
  • More areola is visible above than below
  • You hear swallowing sounds, not clicking
  • Sucking doesn't cause pain

Breastfeeding Positions

Football Hold

Ideal for:

  • Mothers post-cesarean section
  • Feeding twins
  • Women with large breasts
  • Babies with low birth weight

Cradle Hold

A classic position where:

  • Baby lies on their side
  • Tummy is against the mother's tummy
  • Head rests in the crook of the mother's elbow
  • Legs extend along the mother's side

Side-Lying Position

Convenient for:

  • Nighttime feedings
  • Postpartum recovery
  • Resting during feeding

Signs Your Baby Is Full

If you notice these signs, you can conclude the feeding:

  • Baby releases the breast
  • Falls asleep or becomes calm
  • Arms and body relax
  • Sucking slows down or stops
  • Breast feels softer

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Many mothers encounter these issues. Here are techniques to help:

Improper Latch

If the baby latches only onto the nipple:

  • Gently insert a finger into the corner of the baby's mouth
  • Break the suction
  • Re-latch the baby

Pain During Feeding

  • Check the baby's position
  • Ensure a deep latch
  • Consult a lactation specialist if needed

Baby Falling Asleep at the Breast

  • Change positions during feeding
  • Gently stroke the baby
  • Talk to them
  • Check their body temperature (ensure they're not overheated)
  • Try undressing the baby slightly

Tips for Comfortable Breastfeeding

  • Listen to Your Body. Breastfeeding shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, it's a sign something is wrong. Don't endure pain hoping it will pass — this can lead to nipple damage. It's better to break the latch by inserting a finger into the corner of the baby's mouth and re-latch.
  • Don't Rush. Every baby has their own pace. Some feed in 15–20 minutes, others need 40–45 minutes. Allow your baby to feed at their own comfortable rhythm — this aids digestion and reduces the risk of colic.
  • Create a Calm Environment. Dim the lights, eliminate loud noises, and ask family members not to disturb you during feeding. Soft music or white noise can help you relax and your baby to focus on feeding.
  • Stay Hydrated. Keep a water bottle with a straw or a cup with a lid nearby — this allows you to drink without changing positions. Breastfeeding can be dehydrating, so try to drink a glass of water each time you feed.
  • Use Pillows for Support. A nursing pillow should be at breast level, supporting the baby's weight. If you don't have a special pillow, use regular ones to support your arm holding the baby, your lower back, and, if needed, your feet. This reduces strain on your back, neck, and arms.
  • Maintain Good Posture. Sit upright with your back supported. Keep your shoulders relaxed, back straight but not tense. Bring the baby to your breast, not the other way around. Placing a low stoolunder your feet can help keep your knees slightly above hip level.
  • Seek Professional Help When Needed. Don't hesitate to ask for assistance, especially in the early weeks. A lactation consultant can help correct latching techniques, suggest comfortable positions, and address any challenges. Even if you're experienced, each baby is unique, and new insights can be beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding Latch

How can I tell if my baby has latched correctly?

Usually, a correct latch is comfortable and does not cause pain. Your baby’s mouth is wide open, the lower lip is turned outward, the chin touches the breast, and the cheeks stay rounded. More of the areola is visible above the mouth than below. You should hear swallowing rather than clicking sounds, and a feeding session may last anywhere from 15–20 to 40–45 minutes.

Why does my baby make clicking sounds while feeding?

Often, clicking sounds are a sign of a poor latch. In this situation, the baby may be sucking mainly on the nipple, getting less milk and becoming tired more quickly. Gently insert a finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth to break the suction and latch again. With a proper latch, you should hear swallowing rather than clicking.

What should I do if breastfeeding hurts?

It is worth checking your baby’s position and latch depth as soon as pain appears. Breastfeeding should not be painful or damage the nipples. If your baby is latching only onto the nipple, gently break the latch and try again. If pain continues despite correcting the technique, seek help from a lactation consultant.

How can I tell if my baby is full?

Usually, a full baby releases the breast on their own and becomes calm and relaxed. Sucking slows down or stops, the arms and body relax, and some babies fall asleep after feeding. Another sign is that the breast may feel softer afterward. Feeding times vary and can range from 15–20 to 40–45 minutes.

When should I contact a lactation consultant?

It is worth seeking support if you cannot achieve a comfortable latch or if pain continues after repeated attempts to reposition your baby. A lactation consultant can help improve your technique, suggest comfortable feeding positions, and address common breastfeeding challenges. This support is often especially helpful during the first weeks after birth.

With care

Our articles are based on evidence-based medicine and reviewed by pediatricians. However, they do not replace a consultation with your doctor. Every child is unique — if you have any concerns, please consult a medical professional.

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