The Basic Breastfeeding Latch : Achieving a Comfortable Latch with your Baby

How do I stop the pain when my baby nurses? This is one of the most common questions from those in a new breastfeeding relationship. The great news is, pain does not have to be a part of this journey! Oftentimes, adjusting baby’s latch is the remedy for painful nursing. A baby who is sucking directly on the nipple, causes discomfort; but a baby who is able to latch onto the breast itself, makes for a much more comfortable experience. This can be achieved by positioning Baby so nose it at the nipple and chin is nuzzled into the breast. This position encourages Baby’s gape reflex, a wide-open mouth position that allows for a deep latch and decreases the likelihood of the nipple being pulled, chomped on, or otherwise irritated or harmed by your baby.