How to: get your baby to latch

Breastfeeding is natural but it may not come naturally. It is a learnt skill. Taking a class, watching a video or reading can help, but many problems can be prevented with the correct latch.

Before nursing, turn your baby so he is facing you, belly to belly. Hold him – propped with a pillow (shaped feeding pillows work well) if needed – up to your breast rather than leaning towards him.

Supporting his bottom with your other hand, pull him close to you, with his ear, shoulder and hip in alignment. Tickle his lips with your nipple to get him to open his mouth; when he does, bring his mouth to your breast.

As he latches on, your baby’s mouth should be wide open, as in a huge yawn, covering about 2cm of your areola. You cannot see your nipple when baby is feeding.

To stop baby from feeding, press your little finger down on your nipple near baby’s mouth to break the suction.