Good breastfeeding technique isn't about doing everything perfectly. It's about helping you and your baby find a position, latch, and rhythm that feels secure. In the beginning, you are both learning something new, and it's completely normal if it requires practice, breaks, and small adjustments along the way.

How does the baby get a good latch at the breast?

A deep latch is an important part of good breastfeeding technique. The baby needs to take in more than just the nipple so that the sucking motion occurs deeper in the mouth and becomes more comfortable for you.

1. Find a position where you are sitting or lying well supported, allowing your shoulders to relax.
2. Turn the baby completely towards you. Tummy to tummy, so that the head, shoulders, and hips are aligned.
3. Place the baby's nose level with your nipple. This helps the baby lift their chin slightly and open their mouth wide.
4. Wait for the wide-open mouth, and then bring the baby to the breast. Avoid leaning the breast down towards the baby.
5. Check that the chin is touching the breast, while the nose has room to breathe.

 

When the baby has a good latch, the lips will typically be flanged outwards, and you can often see more of the dark area around the nipple above the upper lip than below the lower lip. It’s okay for it to feel tight briefly when the baby latches, but persistent pain is a sign that you might benefit from adjusting the position or the latch.

Which breastfeeding position is best?

There isn't one "right" breastfeeding position. The best one is where you are relaxed, and the baby can lie close to you without having to turn their head or stretch for the breast.

• Laid-back breastfeeding: You lean back with good back support, while the baby lies on their tummy on top of you. This position can allow the baby to seek the breast on their own.
• Sitting breastfeeding: The baby lies close to your body with their entire body facing you. Feel free to use pillows under your arms or the baby so you don't have to hold them tensely.
• Lying on your side: You and the baby lie face to face. This can be a comfortable position when you need to rest.
• Under the arm (football hold): The baby lies at your side with their legs tucked behind you. Some find that this position gives good control over the baby's head and body.

 

Experiment. What works for one feed isn't necessarily what feels best for the next. Don't worry, it's not a sign that you're doing something wrong.

How do I know if the baby is sucking effectively?

Initially, the baby may suck quickly to get the milk flowing. Once the milk lets down, the sucking often becomes slower and deeper, and you may see or hear small swallows. The baby may also take small breaks along the way, especially later in the feed.

Signs that breastfeeding is often working well include:

• You don't experience persistent pain throughout the feed.
• The baby has a calm rhythm with clear swallows.
• The baby unlatches themselves or appears relaxed and content afterwards.
• Your breast often feels softer after breastfeeding.
• The baby has wet diapers and is thriving, as agreed with your health visitor.

 

What do I do if breastfeeding hurts?

Sore nipples are often due to the baby slipping off the tip of the nipple or not taking enough breast tissue into their mouth. If it hurts throughout the entire feed, you can gently break the suction by inserting a clean finger into the corner of the baby's mouth before taking the baby off the breast. Then try again with the nose aligned with the nipple and wait for a wide mouth.

It can also help to change breastfeeding positions so that the pressure on the breast changes. If you develop cracks, wounds, fever, a red and warm area on the breast, or pain that doesn't improve, you should contact your health visitor, midwife, or doctor for personalized advice.

Create a good environment for breastfeeding

When you are well-seated, it becomes easier to be patient with the technique. Make sure you have water, a pillow, and anything else you might need within reach before you start. Clothing that is easy to open and doesn't constrict over the breast can also make the many feeds a little simpler.

A seamless Gel-Support® maternity and nursing bra can provide gentle support while still adapting to breast changes. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, you should avoid bras with underwires, as they can press on the breast and milk ducts. Carriwell's Gel-Support® is a flexible alternative without underwires, so you can feel supported without harsh pressure.

When should you ask for help with breastfeeding technique?

You don't have to wait to reach out. Get help early if breastfeeding is painful, the baby has difficulty latching, you are worried about whether the baby is getting enough, or you simply feel insecure. A health visitor, midwife, or lactation consultant can observe your breastfeeding with you and provide advice tailored to your specific needs.

Breastfeeding is something you are allowed to learn as you go. Small changes in angle, support, and calm can make a big difference. You and your baby are finding your own way, and you are not alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should breastfeeding hurt?

It can feel unusual or tight right when the baby latches, but persistent pain is not something you should grit your teeth through. Try adjusting the latch, and seek help if the pain continues.

How much of the breast should the baby take into their mouth?

The baby should take a good mouthful of breast, not just the nipple. The goal is a deep latch, where the chin is close to the breast, and the baby can suck and swallow calmly.

What do I do if the baby falls asleep at the breast?

This is common, especially with very young babies. You can try to create some contact by stroking the baby's back, speaking softly, or slightly changing position. If you are concerned about whether the baby is eating enough, talk to your health visitor.

Can I change breastfeeding positions during the same feed?

Yes. You are welcome to change positions if you get tired, are in pain, or the baby is not comfortable. The most important thing is that you both find peace and a position that feels comfortable.