How To Get Baby To Latch Deeper

Breastfeeding isn't all sunshine and roses. For lack of a better (less literal) word, sometimes it sucks. If you're experiencing breastfeeding pain, chances are that something can be tweaked to solve the issue, so that it isn't horrible forever. Issues with latch are some of the most common reasons moms feel pain and babies get fussy while nursing. If your latch is too shallow, it will feel painful for you, and baby won't get the milk that they need to stay full and happy. Luckily learning how to get baby to latch deeper can solve both of these issues.

Not to overstate this, but even the American Pregnancy Association (APA) called a proper, deep latch the "most important part of successful breastfeeding." If you've ever dealt with a baby's shallow latch, you know the pain that comes along as a result. If left unchecked, a poor latch can lead to engorgement, supply issues, underfeeding, and other issues that will make breastfeeding a literal pain for both you and your little one.

Instead of suffering and hoping it will correct itself, taking a few small, proactive (or corrective) steps now will teach both you and your baby the correct way to latch for a pain-free, successful nursing session.

According to the Pump Station, the first step to deal with a deep latch is ensuring that your baby's mouth is positioned to latch well below your nipple. The latch should encompass your entire nipple and part (or all) of the areola, according to Fit Pregnancy.

To get your baby to open wide, align their nose with your nipple and touch their nose with it. This will cause your baby to instinctively open their mouth and pull their head up. Then, gently press your baby into you and place as much of your breast as you can into their open mouth.

Fit Pregnancy also noted that having your baby at "breast level" can help reduce the need to lower your breast down to your baby or pull your baby up. Instead, try using a nursing pillow to support your arm and your baby at a high enough level to easily access your breast.

As you practice this technique, the pain should be significantly less or disappear altogether through a simple, yet effective change of positioning.