How to Get a Baby to Latch on Washington DC

Latching on

• Have pillows or folded blankets under the baby. The baby's hips need to be almost as high as the baby's head. This will help keep the baby's jaw relaxed to nurse without pinching your nipple. As your baby gets older you may not need this support, but it is very helpful at first.
• Hold your baby close to you. The baby's ear, shoulder and hip should be in a straight line. Do not push the baby's head forward. Pushing the head makes it hard for the baby to swallow.
• Hold your breast in one hand with your fingers underneath and thumb on top. Have your hand back from the areola (the dark skin around the nipple). Your hand should not get in the way as the baby latches on. The baby needs to get the nipple far back in the mouth to nurse so milk can flow easily.
• Line up the baby's lips with your nipple. Touch the lips with your nipple until the baby's mouth opens wide. The baby is looking for something to suck. This is called rooting. Pull the baby quickly onto the breast. Once the baby starts sucking, you will feel a tug on your nipple. It should not hurt after the first few sucks.
• If it hurts, start over. Put your finger in the baby's mouth between the gums and take your nipple out. Make sure the baby's mouth is wide open and the tongue is down before the baby latches on again. It is okay to start over several times.

Signs That Breastfeeding is Going Well Breastfeeding is going well for you and your baby when:

• You feel a tug, but it does not hurt when the baby sucks.
• Your baby swallows hard after a few strong sucks.
• Your baby is content at the end of the feeding.
• By 4 days old, your baby has at least 6 wet diapers, and 2-5 yellow bowel movements every 24 hours.
• Your baby is gaining weight at each check-up.

These are other signs that you may see:

• Your uterus may tighten during or after feedings the first few days after delivery.
• You may feel sleepy or relaxed when your baby nurses.
• You may notice that your breast softens as your baby nurses.
• Your baby's arms and shoulders will relax during feeding.