3 reasons for a poor latch

3 REASONS FOR A POOR LATCH

 When breastfeeding = pain and/or sore, cracked and raw nipples, it is a sign that your baby may be latching on incorrectly at your breast. The sore or painful nipples occur usually because the baby’s gums clamp onto the nipple, rather than taking in the areola, right behind the nipple. The baby should squeeze down on the areola so that milk flows into its mouth. How do you recognise whether your baby is latching on incorrectly and has a poor latch? 

1. The shape of the nipples: A “normal” nipple stands out while breastfeeding and the baby usually goes past it and starts breastfeeding. But if your nipples are flat or inverted, that does not facilitate breastfeeding and you may be suffering from latch issues because of this reason. Ideally, you should get immediate help from a certified Lactation Consultant. With the right guidance and support, your baby will learn how to latch on and you will be able to breastfeed!
2. Incorrect positioning: Remember the golden rules - tummy to mummy and nose to nipple. If the positioning does not follow these guidelines, try to change positions to help your baby get a better, deeper latch.
3. Oral issues:

●      Tongue tie (anklyoglossia) is a situation where your baby is not able to extend their tongue and latch on correctly.

●      Babies with a cleft lip and palate may not be able to create a good suction while breastfeeding and cannot stay latched on.

●      Premature babies (or babies with jaundice) may be too weak or small to latch on correctly. Meeting a certified Lactation Consultant can be a good way to get help with these issues. Some body work may help as well including massage and cranio-sacral work. 

It is imperative that a poor latch should be dealt with as soon as possible. If the latch remains poor, several issues may occur:

●      Your baby may not gain weight.

●      If the breasts aren’t emptied correctly, your body may not be able to recognise how much milk your baby actually needs, because breastmilk production works on a demand and supply basis. So an incorrect latch can affect milk production.

●      You could have engorgement, clogged milk ducts or if the latch is very poor, then even mastitis if the baby is not feeding correctly. 

However, this is fairly normal and many new mothers face issues with an incorrect latch. Simple things like a position change or getting professional help from a Lactation Consultant should solve the issue of a poor latch fairly quickly and make your breastfeeding journey a more efficient and enjoyable one.