Latch Problems
Breastfeeding is the ideal way to nourish your baby, but it’s not always easy. Many new moms experience challenges with latching, which can lead to concerns like weight loss or low milk supply. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Studies show that up to 70% of first-time moms experience breastfeeding difficulties in the first month.1 The good news is, with the right support, most moms and babies can work through these challenges and go on to have breastfeeding success. This guide will walk you through some of the most common reasons for latch problems and offer helpful tips to overcome them.
Why Latch Problems Happen
There are many reasons why your baby may have trouble latching correctly, which is vital for getting enough milk and establishing an abundant milk supply.2,3,4 Sometimes the cause of your baby’s latch difficulty is clear, but not always. It may take some time to figure out the root cause. Here are some common causes:
- Sleepy baby due to:
- Being born early
- Normal newborn sleepiness
- Medications from labor, delivery, or postpartum
- Elevated jaundice levels
- Excessive suctioning after birth
- Excessive weight loss or slow weight gain
- Physical factors:
- Flat or inverted nipples
- Tongue or lip ties
- Other causes:
- Engorgement (when breasts are too full and firm)
- Frequent bottles leading to flow preference or nipple confusion
- Infection, illness, or other medical conditions
Signs of Ineffective Latching
If your baby isn’t latching well, it may affect their growth and your milk supply. Here are some signs that your baby may not be breastfeeding effectively:2,3,4
- Baby Signs:
- Fewer than 8 feedings in 24 hours, or more than 14 feedings in 24 hours
- Doesn’t wake up on their own for feedings
- Latches and unlatches frequently, struggles to maintain latch
- Sucks for only a few minutes and falls asleep quickly
- Feedings take a long time (up to an hour or more)
- Still seems hungry after feedings
- Not enough wet or dirty diapers
- Stools haven’t changed to yellow and seedy by Day 5
- Fewer than 6 wet diapers per day by Day 5
- Mother Signs:
-
- Sore, cracked, or bruised nipples
- Nipples look misshapen after feeding (creased, compressed, or flattened)
- Need to use a nipple shield to help baby latch
- Prolonged or severe engorgement (breasts don’t soften after feedings)
- Decreased milk supply due to inadequate milk removal
- Needing to pump and bottle feed
- Plugged milk ducts or mastitis
How You Can Help Your Baby
- Skin-to-Skin: Holding your baby close helps you respond to early feeding cues, encouraging a better latch while they’re calm.
- Wake Your Baby: If your baby isn’t waking up to feed at least 8 times a day, wake them every 3 hours to encourage feedings.
- Try Different Positions: Experiment with breastfeeding positions to see which one works best for both you and your baby.
- Shape Your Breast: Gently shape your breast to help your baby latch more deeply.
- Massage Your Breast: Gently massage and use breast compressions during feedings. This can keep your baby more alert and vigorous, ensuring they’re getting more milk.
- Nipple Shield: Under the guidance of a lactation consultant, a nipple shield may help your baby latch better.
- Begin Pumping: If your baby is struggling to latch, initiate hand expression and pumping to maintain your milk supply until your baby latches better.
- Supplementation: If needed, offer expressed breast milk using a spoon, cup, or slow-flow bottle to make sure your baby is getting enough milk.
- Track Feedings and Diapers: Keep track of how often your baby is feeding and their wet and dirty diapers to ensure they’re getting enough milk.
- Monitor Baby’s Weight: Weigh your baby regularly at a healthcare provider’s office to track their growth.
- Don’t Give Up: Breastfeeding can be tough, but it will get easier. Keep an eye on your baby’s intake, protect your supply with pumping if needed, and reach out to your healthcare provider and Lactation Consultant for personalized support.
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
- Pumping 101
- Lactation Q & A
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical evaluation or consultation. Please seek advice from your own healthcare providers for individualized recommendations.
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