Breastfeeding Latch 101: What Every Pregnant Mom Should Know Before Birth

Written by Brianne Taggart, RN, IBCLC, founder of Breezy Babies Lactation Group, | November 2026

You’ve probably heard someone say that breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt. But do you know how to get a good breastfeeding latch, or what one actually looks like?

And how are you supposed to know if your baby is doing it correctly when you’ve never breastfed before?

These are some of the most common questions expecting moms ask, and they’re great questions to explore before delivery.

As an IBCLC, I can tell you that learning a few simple latch techniques before your baby arrives can make a big difference in your breastfeeding experience.

Let’s break down the basics.

What Is a Breastfeeding Latch?

A breastfeeding latch is how your baby’s mouth attaches to your breast to remove milk.

A good latch helps your baby transfer milk effectively while keeping you comfortable.

When a baby attaches too shallowly, they may compress your nipple instead of taking a deeper mouthful of breast tissue.

This can contribute to sore nipples, ineffective milk transfer, and frustration for both of you.

The goal isn’t just getting your baby onto the breast. It’s helping your baby attach deeply and comfortably.

5 Signs of a Good Breastfeeding Latch

1. Your Baby Opens Their Mouth Wide

Ideally, your baby opens wide before attaching to the breast.

A wide mouth allows your baby to take in more breast tissue rather than just the nipple. Remember, it’s breastfeeding, NOT nipple feeding.

2. Your Baby’s Chin Touches Your Breast

Your baby’s chin should rest comfortably against your breast, with their head free to tilt slightly backward.

Their nose should remain clear enough for comfortable breathing.

Pro tip: Slide your baby toward their toes while latched to bury the chin so the nose isn’t even touching.

3. Your Baby’s Lips Are Relaxed

Your baby’s lips will usually rest outward rather than being tightly tucked inward.

However, appearance alone doesn’t determine whether a latch is effective.

4. You Notice Rhythmic Sucking and Swallowing

Once milk begins flowing, your baby should demonstrate periods of deeper, rhythmic sucking with swallowing.

In the first days, when colostrum volumes are small, swallowing may be subtle.

5. Breastfeeding Feels Comfortable

This is a big one!

Some moms experience brief tenderness when their baby first attaches, particularly in the early days.

But ongoing pinching, sharp pain, cracked nipples, or worsening discomfort are signs that something needs attention.

Repeat after me: You do not have to push through a painful latch.

How to Get a Deep Breastfeeding Latch: Step by Step

When your baby arrives, try these simple steps:

Step 1: Get comfortable.
Find a position where your arms and back feel supported. Relax your shoulders.

Step 2: Bring your baby close.
Your baby’s tummy should face your body, with their head, neck, and torso aligned.

Step 3: Start nose to nipple.
Position your baby’s nose near your nipple rather than aiming directly into their mouth.

Step 4: Wait for a wide mouth.
Gently brush your nipple near your baby’s upper lip and give them time to open wide.

Step 5: Bring your baby toward your breast.
Support their shoulders and upper back while allowing their head to tilt naturally. Try to avoid pushing on your baby’s head.

Step 6: Check comfort and swallowing.
Once attached, notice how the latch feels and whether your baby begins feeding effectively.

If the latch is painful, gently break the suction with a clean finger and try again.

You can always ask your nurse or lactation consultant for hands on guidance.

Best Breastfeeding Positions for Newborns

There isn’t one perfect breastfeeding position for every mom and baby.

Here are four common options.

Cross Cradle Hold

This position gives you more control over your baby’s head and body while learning to latch.

It can be especially helpful during the newborn stage.

Football Hold

Your baby rests alongside your body with their legs extending behind you.

Some moms find this position comfortable after a Cesarean delivery or when feeding multiples.

Laid Back Breastfeeding

You recline comfortably while your baby rests tummy down against your body.

This position encourages natural newborn feeding reflexes and can be especially helpful for babies learning to latch.

Side Lying Position

You and your baby lie facing each other while breastfeeding.

This can be useful during postpartum recovery.

Experimenting with different positions can help you discover what works best.

What If Your Baby Won’t Latch?

First, don’t panic.

Some newborns need extra time and support to learn how to breastfeed.

Common reasons for latch difficulties include:

• Sleepiness after delivery
• Positioning challenges
• Breast fullness or swelling
• Difficulty coordinating sucking and swallowing
• Oral movement or functional concerns

Try skin to skin contact, a different position, or expressing a few drops of colostrum onto your nipple.

If your baby continues struggling, ask for lactation support promptly.

An IBCLC can evaluate the entire feeding process, including positioning, milk transfer, and your baby’s oral function.

If your baby cannot latch or transfer milk, you’ll also need a plan for feeding your baby and protecting your milk supply while you work on breastfeeding.

How Do You Know Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk?

A latch that looks beautiful doesn’t always guarantee effective milk transfer.

Pay attention to your baby’s swallowing, feeding frequency, diaper output, and weight.

Newborns generally breastfeed at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours.

Your baby’s healthcare provider will monitor weight changes, hydration, and jaundice during the first days.

If your baby is very sleepy, rarely swallowing, producing fewer diapers than expected, or struggling to feed, seek professional guidance.

A Good Latch Is a Skill You Learn Together

You don’t need to become a breastfeeding expert before giving birth.

But understanding the basics can help you recognize what’s working and when something needs adjustment.

Remember, breastfeeding is a relationship between two people who are both learning.

Sometimes a small positioning change makes a huge difference.

And sometimes additional evaluation is needed.

Either way, support is available.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breastfeeding Latch

How do I know if my baby’s latch is deep enough?

A deep latch generally feels comfortable, allows your baby to maintain suction, and results in effective sucking and swallowing.

Is breastfeeding supposed to hurt the first week?

Brief tenderness can occur, but persistent pain, cracking, bleeding, or pinching should be evaluated.

What is the easiest breastfeeding position for beginners?

Cross cradle and laid back breastfeeding are popular starting positions. The best choice depends on your comfort and your baby’s needs.

Can a baby have a bad latch but still get milk?

Yes. Some babies transfer milk despite a shallow or uncomfortable latch. However, persistent latch problems may affect comfort or milk transfer and deserve assessment.

When should I see a lactation consultant for latch problems?

Reach out early if breastfeeding hurts, your baby repeatedly slips off, feedings seem ineffective, or you’re worried about milk intake.

Continue Learning

Next Week: How to Prepare Your Body for Breastfeeding Before Baby Arrives

Missed the beginning? Read How to Prepare for Breastfeeding: 7 Things to Do During Pregnancy

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Brianne Taggart, Lactation Expert, is a mom of four and founder of Breezy Babies Lactation Group, one of the largest private practice lactation groups in the United States. Breezy Babies supports families both in home and via telehealth, working with parents locally and worldwide to make feeding feel calmer, more confident, and more breezy.

Let’s Keep the Support Going:

• Visit us online: Breezy Babies for more breastfeeding resources and freebies.
• Get personalized lactation support: Text us anytime at 801‑513‑3255 or check your insurance coverage for in home or telehealth lactation consultations.
• Grab your FREE Nipple Ruler: Download our free nipple ruler to help measure your nipples and find a more comfortable breast pump flange fit.
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