How to Understand Latch Problems and Get the Best Latch for Breastfeeding?

Bringing a newborn into the world is a life-changing experience. The transition from pregnancy to nursing introduces a delicate dance of learning and adjusting. For many new mothers, breastfeeding is both a rewarding and challenging journey.
One of the most crucial aspects of successful breastfeeding is achieving a good latch, which is essential for both comfort and effective milk transfer.
In this article, we’ll explore how to identify and fix latch problems while breastfeeding, why a good latch is key to a positive nursing experience, and practical breastfeeding tips to help moms and babies thrive.
Why is a Good Latch So Important?
A good latch is more than just a comfortable breastfeeding experience—it’s the foundation for your baby’s nourishment and your overall breastfeeding success. When your baby latches properly, they can extract milk efficiently, ensuring they get the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. A proper latch also prevents common breastfeeding challenges such as nipple pain, cracked nipples, and low milk supply.
On the flip side, a poor latch can lead to discomfort, frustration, and even affect your confidence as a breastfeeding mom. It’s important to address latch problems early to establish a smooth and enjoyable breastfeeding journey.

Understanding the Latches: Deep Latch vs. Shallow Latch
Think of breastfeeding as a puzzle where the baby’s latch is the most critical piece. A deep latch ensures your baby takes in enough of the breast tissue, with their mouth covering the nipple and a good portion of the areola. This allows for effective milk transfer and prevents issues like sore or cracked nipples.
If you are experiencing nipple pain, read my related blog about ‘Sore Nipple Remedies for Breastfeeding Moms’.
In contrast, a shallow latch occurs when the baby’s mouth only grips the nipple, leaving the areola exposed. This can feel like sharp pain during feeding, result in inefficient milk transfer, and even lead to nipple damage over time. If you’re experiencing sore nipples, nipple pain or notice your baby seems frustrated during feedings, it’s worth examining their latch.
What Are the Golden Rules for Breastfeeding?
To establish a healthy breastfeeding routine, keep these golden rules in mind:
- Positioning Matters: Both you and your baby should be comfortable. Explore different breastfeeding positions, like the football hold, cradle hold, or laid-back position, to find what works best for you.As a mom to three, who breastfed all of her babies for a long time, I highly recommend the football hold for the first 1-2 weeks of baby being born, especially until you get more comfortable with latching baby.Not only will baby latch better, but the position is better for mom as well because you can use a haaka on the other breast to catch milk if you are engorged, or need to release breast milk.You can also easily place baby on a pillow/boppy under your arm which helps unlatch baby to stay sleeping without having to move them too much.
- Encourage a Wide Open Mouth: Your baby’s mouth should open wide like a hungry bird, ensuring they take in as much of the breast as possible.
- Bring Baby to Breast, Not Breast to Baby: Align your baby’s body with yours and gently guide them to latch, rather than leaning forward or pushing your breast toward them.
- Pay Attention to Their Sucking and Swallowing: A rhythmic sucking pattern followed by swallowing sounds indicates effective milk transfer.
- Address Problems Early: If you encounter issues like flat or inverted nipples, sore nipples, or a weak latch, consult a lactation consultant for personalized advice.

How to Fix a Bad Latch While Breastfeeding
A bad latch can be frustrating, but with patience and persistence, you can correct it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to improving your baby’s latch:
- Start with Skin-to-Skin Contact: Holding your baby close, skin-to-skin, can calm them and encourage natural rooting behavior.
- Position Your Baby Correctly: Ensure their body is aligned with yours, and their chin is tucked into your breast. Their nose should hover above your nipple, not pressed against it.
- Encourage a Wide Latch: Use your finger to gently tease your baby’s mouth open wide before guiding them to your breast.
- Break the Latch if Needed: If the latch feels painful or shallow, use your pinky finger to break the suction and reposition.
- Seek Support: A lactation consultant can observe a feeding session and provide tailored advice to improve your baby’s latch.
Additional Tip from a Mom of 3:

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What Causes Latch Problems?
Latch problems can arise for several reasons. Understanding the root cause is the first step to fixing them. Here are a few common factors:
- Baby’s Tongue Position: If your baby’s tongue isn’t forward and cupped under the breast, it can lead to an inefficient latch.
- Flat or Inverted Nipples: These can make it harder for a baby to latch deeply, but tools like a nipple shield or guidance from a lactation consultant can help.
- Weak Sucking Reflex: Some babies have a naturally weaker suck, which can impact their ability to latch deeply. Strengthening exercises or using a breast pump to stimulate milk flow may help.
- Engorgement: When breasts are too full, it can be difficult for your baby to latch. Hand expressing or pumping a small amount of breast milk before feeding can soften the breast.
Sore or cracked nipples when breastfeeding can occur due to improper positioning and attachment of the baby. It’s extremely important that you get the best latch for you and baby.
How Can I Make My Baby’s Latch Stronger?
Improving your baby’s latch takes time and practice. Here are some actionable tips:
- Practice Breastfeeding Positions: Experiment with different holds to find one that supports your baby’s mouth and head.
- Offer Frequent Feeds: A hungry baby is more likely to latch deeply. Feeding on demand keeps them engaged and ensures regular milk flow.
- Support Their Chin and Jaw: Use your hand to gently guide their chin to the breast, encouraging a deeper latch.
- Stimulate Their Sucking Reflex: Gently stroke their lower lip with your nipple to encourage a wide mouth opening.
Addressing Common Latch Issues
Breastfeeding can feel overwhelming when faced with challenges, but many latch issues can be resolved with the right approach. Here’s how to address some of the most common concerns:
Painful, Cracked or Sore Nipples
If you’re dealing with sore nipples or cracked nipples, check your baby’s latch immediately. A shallow latch is the most common culprit. You can also:
- Apply lanolin cream or organic nipple balm for soothing relief.
- Let your nipples air dry after feeding to prevent irritation.
- Use breast pads to protect your clothing and reduce friction.
Flat or Inverted Nipples
While flat or inverted nipples can pose challenges, they’re not a barrier to successful breastfeeding. Tools like nipple shields or techniques like gently rolling the nipple before latching can help.
Milk Supply Issues
An improper latch can reduce milk transfer, affecting your milk supply. Ensure a deep latch and frequent nursing to stimulate milk production. If you’re still struggling, consider using a breast pump to maintain supply and consult a lactation consultant for support.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve tried adjusting your baby’s latch and are still facing issues, it’s time to reach out for professional help. A lactation consultant can observe your feeding sessions, provide feedback, and offer customized solutions. Many hospitals, clinics, and breastfeeding support groups have lactation consultants available.
A Beginner Mom’s Latching Journey
When I had my first baby, breastfeeding was not the magical, effortless experience I expected. My little one struggled with latching and I had sore and damaged nipples. I felt defeated every time he cried at the breast. I didn’t know then what I know now: breastfeeding is a skill that both mom and baby need to learn together.
Through trial and error, countless tears, and the invaluable help of a lactation consultant, we found our rhythm. The discomfort faded, my confidence grew, and breastfeeding became the beautiful bonding experience I had hoped for. Following my next two pregnancies, breastfeeding was easier because I learned a lot from my first baby.
If you’re struggling now, mama, know that it gets easier, and you’re not alone.
Practical Breastfeeding Tips
To wrap up, here are a few tried-and-true breastfeeding tips to help you on your journey:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support your milk supply.
- Invest in Comfortable Clothing: Nursing-friendly tops and bras make feeding on the go much easier.
- Use a Breast Pump: If you’re experiencing engorgement or need to boost your supply, pumping can help.
- Embrace Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on family, friends, or a breastfeeding support group.
- Celebrate the Small Wins: Each successful latch is a step closer to mastering breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is a journey filled with highs, lows, and countless learning moments. Whether you’re dealing with nipple pain, latch problems, or concerns about milk supply, remember that help is available, and you’re doing an amazing job.

If you’re experiencing sore and cracked nipple pain, you may want to read my blog about “Organic Nipple Pain Remedies”. I suffered from damaged nipples within the first 24 hours of my son being born due to latching him on incorrectly. I suffered a few weeks of pain until I came across the sore nipple pain remedy and found relief within 48 hours.
Embrace the process, reach out for support when you need it, and trust your instincts. Every day of breastfeeding strengthens the bond between you and your baby, and that connection is worth every challenge. Happy nursing, mamas!
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