Locations:
Search IconSearch

Rani new Post test regression

T

What is breastfeeding latch?

Breastfeeding latch, or simply latch, refers to how your baby’s mouth attaches to your nipple and areola when breastfeeding (chestfeeding). Your baby needs to latch on to your breast to begin taking in milk and gain nourishment. Exactly what a good breastfeeding latch looks like can vary. So, don’t pressure yourself to have a so-called “perfect latch” (there’s no such thing).

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

Breastfeeding experts advise finding a comfortable position for breastfeeding and using simple measures to help your baby latch. But if your baby has certain medical issues (like tongue-tie), latching on for breastfeeding might be more challenging. Plus, every baby is different. What’s easy for one parent to do might be harder in your situation. And that’s OK. It’s just a matter of finding what works best for your baby.

If you’re having difficulties with getting your baby to latch, don’t give up. And don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Talk to a breastfeeding medicine specialist (a medical doctor with advanced training in breastfeeding management) or lactation consultant. These healthcare professionals can offer tips on how to get a good latch.

Advertisement

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Penne pasta with arugula and asparagus.
April 3, 2024/Nutrition DEPRECATE
Recipe: Penne Pasta Salad With Asparagus and Arugula

Great for a quick meal at home or to bring to a potluck dinner.

Pumpkin-spices in foreground with pumpkins and latte in background.
March 27, 2024/Nutrition DEPRECATE
Health Benefits of Pumpkin Spice

It’s the flavor of fall, but it’s good to be wise about how you consume it

Quinoa orange salad.
November 29, 2023/Nutrition DEPRECATE
5 Easy (and Quick!) Meatless Monday Vegetarian Recipes

Dietitian-approved + little prep time needed.

This delish dish marries the sweetness of salmon with the nutty taste of toasted quinoa.
November 27, 2023/Nutrition DEPRECATE
Recipe: Toasted Quinoa and Salmon Salad

A delicious combination of texture and taste.

Trending Topics

White bowls full of pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate and various kinds of nuts
25 Magnesium-Rich Foods You Should Be Eating

A healthy diet can easily meet your body’s important demands for magnesium

Woman feeling for heart rate in neck on run outside, smartwatch and earbuds
Heart Rate Zones Explained

A super high heart rate means you’re burning more than fat

Spoonful of farro salad with tomato
What To Eat If You’ve Been Diagnosed With Prediabetes

Type 2 diabetes isn’t inevitable with these dietary changes

Ad