How to Repair Shallow Latch & Deepen Baby's Latch
Breastfeeding is a beautiful bonding process, but sometimes it comes with difficulties. One of the most prevalent challenges that many mothers experience is a shallow latch. A shallow latch results when your baby latches to your breast improperly, both hampering the milk intake of the baby and comfort of the mother. In this article, we will discuss how to fix a shallow latch, why a deep latch is essential, and real tips on how to fix a shallow latch so that you and your baby can have a successful breastfeeding experience.
What is a Shallow Latch?
Shallow latch breastfeeding occurs when your infant latches to only the nipple or to just a portion of the areola, not drawing in much of the areola and the nipple. It leads to discomfort in the mother and results in inefficient milk transfer. It's important to get a deeper latch to make sure your baby is feeding well and so you feel comfortable during the process.
A shallow latch usually results in nipple pain, sore nipples, or cracked nipples. In extreme situations, this can make breastfeeding painful or impossible, so it's important to deal with the problem as soon as possible.
How to Identify a Shallow Latch
Understanding the signs of a shallow latch is the first step in correcting it. Here are the physical and behavioral indicators that your baby may not be latching deeply enough:
Physical Signs:
- Visible Areola: If a large part of your areola is exposed and your baby’s mouth is only covering the nipple, this may be a sign of a shallow latch.
- Nipple Shape: After nursing, your nipple may appear compressed or flattened, indicating that your baby hasn’t latched deeply enough.
- Sore or Bleeding Nipples: One of the most common symptoms of a shallow latch is nipple pain, which can lead to cracked or bleeding nipples over time.
Behavioral Signs from the Baby:
- Frequent Slipping Off the Breast: If your baby is frequently coming off the breast or having trouble staying latched, they might not have latched deeply enough.
- Clicking Noises: A clicking noise usually indicates that the baby's latch is not secure and they're pulling on and off the nipple rather than having a deep latch.
- Frustration or Fussiness: Infants can get frustrated if they are not receiving sufficient milk because of a poor latch, and they become fussy during feeding.
Identifying these signs early will enable you to take steps to rectify the shallow latch and enhance your breastfeeding experience.
Common Causes of a Shallow Latch
There are a number of reasons why a shallow latch occurs. Knowing these causes will enable you to effectively address the problem:
1. Baby Not Opening Their Mouth Wide Enough
One of the most frequent causes of a shallow latch is your baby not opening their mouth wide enough to allow an adequate amount of areola into their mouth. Babies must open their mouths wide enough to achieve a deep seal around the breast and enable good milk transfer.
2. Incorrect Positioning of the Baby or Mother
If the baby is not positioned in relation to the breast, they can have trouble getting suction deep into the breast. This might occur when the baby's body is not in alignment with the breast or when the nipple is too high or too low in the mouth.
3. Baby's Tongue-Tie or Oral Issues
A tongue-tie or other anatomical oral complications in a baby can make latching deeply difficult. Such problems can limit the baby from being able to open their mouth very wide and suck well.
4. Maternal Factors (Nipple Shape, Engorgement)
Some nipple shapes, like flat or inverted nipples, make it more difficult for a baby to latch on deeply. Overactive letdown or engorgement can also cause the nipple to be too hard or impossible for the baby to latch onto.
Determining the underlying cause of your baby's shallow latch will enable you to use the correct methods to correct it.
Techniques to Get a Deeper Latch
The following strategies can work well in remedying a shallow latch and fostering a deeper and more efficient latch while breastfeeding:
Positioning and Alignment
Correct positioning is key to achieving a deep latch. Some positions that promote a deep latch include the cross-cradle hold and the football hold. Ensure that your baby’s body is aligned with yours, with their head and body in a straight line. Their mouth should be at nipple level, and they should be brought to the breast, not the other way around.
Stimulating a Wide Mouth Opening
One of the shared problems with shallow latch breastfeeding is that the mouth of the baby doesn't gape wide enough. To get them to gape their mouth wider, gently tickle the top lip of the baby with the nipple to provoke them to gape their mouth. Only approach the baby with the breast when the baby has opened their mouth wide. That way, they are assured of receiving a sufficient amount of the areola so they can latch more deeply.
Shaping the Breast
At times, shaping your breast may assist your baby in latching more deeply. Compress the breast slightly using a "C" hold or "U" hold to help your baby latch more deeply. This will allow your baby to take more of the areola and nipple into their mouth, which will lead to improved milk transfer.
Bringing Baby to the Breast
It’s important to bring your baby to the breast, not the other way around. When breastfeeding, lead with the baby’s chin and aim the nipple toward the roof of the mouth. This will help them take a deeper latch and prevent nipple pain.
Ensuring Proper Lip Position
For a deep latch, the lips of the baby should be flanged outward, like "fish lips." Make sure the baby's chin is on your breast and their nose is not blocked. A good latch is when the baby's mouth covers most of the areola, and their lips seal around the breast.
Overcoming Challenges in Achieving a Deep Latch
Getting a deeper latch can be challenging, but don't worry! Below are some of the common challenges and solutions:
1. Baby's Reluctance to Open Mouth Wide
If your baby is not opening their mouth wide, try attempting various breastfeeding positions, such as reclining or lying back to facilitate an easier latch. It is also possible to wait for the baby to root around and open their mouth independently before you guide them onto the breast.
Mother's Discomfort in Certain Positions
If you find some positions to be uncomfortable, try others until you discover one that is comfortable for both you and your baby. Supportive pillows, particularly nursing pillows, can add additional comfort and alignment.
Baby's Anatomical Issues (Tongue-Tie)
If you notice your baby has a tongue-tie or other oral problem, see a lactation consultant or pediatrician. They can examine your baby's gut anatomy and provide solutions, which might involve exercises or, in certain situations, a small procedure to address the problem.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you're still having trouble with shallow latch breastfeeding after trying to make it work, it's time to bring in the pros. Some things you should check in with a lactation consultant or healthcare professional include:
- Continuous Nipple Pain: If nipples continue to be sore after testing out various latch styles, a lactation consultant can help
- Not Enough Weight Gain: If the baby is failing to gain weight or appears famished after being fed, get with your pediatrician immediately
- Continuous Latching Challenges: If you can't manage a good latch regardless of the position or method you use, a lactation consultant can assist
A lactation specialist can offer individualized advice and assist you in breaking down the problem.
Conclusion
Repairing a shallow latch is critical to a successful breastfeeding experience. A deep latch will help ensure that your baby is getting proper nutrition and that you are not experiencing discomfort. By adjusting your positioning, technique, and support, you can correct a shallow latch and turn breastfeeding into an easy, pleasant experience for you and your baby. Do not be too hard on yourself, and know that assistance is never far away through lactation consultants and breastfeeding support groups.
FAQs
How do I know if my baby has a shallow latch?
Signs of a shallow latch include nipple pain, a compressed nipple shape after breastfeeding, and a baby frequently slipping off the breast or making clicking noises while feeding.
Can a shallow latch cause nipple pain?
Yes, a shallow latch can cause nipple pain, soreness, and even cracking, which can make breastfeeding uncomfortable for both you and your baby.
How can I fix a shallow latch?
Fixing a shallow latch involves ensuring proper positioning, stimulating a wide mouth opening, and shaping your breast for better latching. Consult with a lactation consultant for personalized guidance.
Should I seek professional help if my baby has a shallow latch?
If you experience persistent nipple pain or your baby isn’t gaining enough weight, it’s a good idea to consult a lactation consultant and your child’s pediatrician for further assistance and support.
