How to Get a Good Breastfeeding Latch

Breastfeeding is a beautiful bonding experience between mother and baby, but it can take a little practice to get right. One of the most important elements of successful breastfeeding is ensuring your baby has a good latch. Without it, feeding can be uncomfortable and ineffective.
So how do you know if you and your baby are latching properly? Here’s your guide to what a good latch looks like, how it feels, and the signs that your baby is getting enough milk.

What Does a Good Latch Look and Feel Like?

A proper latch allows your baby to effectively draw out milk while keeping you comfortable. Here’s what to look for:

Signs of a Good Latch

• Deep latch with visible angle at the lips: Your baby’s mouth should cover the nipple and as much of the areola as possible—especially the lower part.
• Nose tilted up, chin deeply tucked in: This “sniff” position helps keep the nose clear and airway open.
• Lips flanged outwards: Both the upper and lower lips should be rolled out, like a fish.
• Comfortable feeding: It’s normal to feel a few seconds of latch discomfort at the start, but it should ease quickly. If it doesn’t, gently break the latch and try again.

Tip: Aim to have baby’s chin touch your breast first, then lift them up so their upper lip catches next—this helps them take in a bigger mouthful of breast tissue.

Signs Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk

Even if your latch feels right, how can you be sure your baby is actually feeding well? Look for these six signs of successful milk transfer:

1. Audible Swallowing
After the first few sucks, you should hear (or feel) your baby swallowing.

2. Jaw and Cheek Movement
Watch for consistent, rhythmic jaw or cheek movements.

3. Softer Breasts After Feeding
Your breasts should feel less full or engorged after a good feed.

4. Baby Appears Satisfied
A content, sleepy baby post-feed is a great sign they’ve had enough.

5. Wet and Dirty Nappies
From about day five onward, expect at least 6–8 wet nappies and 3–4 stools each day.

6. Healthy Weight Gain
It’s normal for babies to lose a bit of weight initially, but they should start gaining by day 4—about 20–30g per day up to 4 months of age.

Step-by-Step: How to Latch Baby Correctly

This mother-led latching technique helps you create a deep, effective, and pain-free latch.

Step 1: Positioning Is Everything

• Tummy to Tummy: Your baby’s body should face yours, belly to belly.
• Chin to Skin: Let the baby’s chin touch your breast first so they tilt their head back and latch deeply.
• Straight Alignment: Ears, shoulders, and hips should all be in a straight line, not twisted or tilted.
• Avoid Chin Tuck: A tucked chin means a shallow latch. Keep baby’s chin up and in contact with the breast.

The “Thumb-Stache” Latch Trick

Think of this as your breastfeeding hack for a better latch:

• Hand Position: Place your thumb near baby’s nose and your fingers under their chin—avoiding pressure on the lips.
• Visual Cue: Imagine you’re creating a “thumb-stache” under baby’s nose to guide them into the right position for a deep latch.

Pro Tips for Latching Success

1. Watch for Feeding Cues
Early hunger signs include rooting (head turning), open mouth, and hands to mouth. Don’t wait for crying, it’s a late sign of hunger.

2. Guide, Don’t Push
Let baby take the lead. Gently press around the areola (not the nipple) to help guide them in, chin first, like you’re taking a big bite of a burger!

3. Prioritise Comfort
Use pillows or breastfeeding cushions to bring baby to your chest—not the other way around. Leaning forward strains your back and affects latch quality.

Need Help? You’re Not Alone

Breastfeeding isn’t always easy and that’s okay. If you’re having trouble, reach out to a lactation consultant or your paediatrician. Early support makes all the difference.

Watch & Learn

• Chin to Skin and Latching Technique (Instagram Video)

More Resources:

• La Leche League UK – Positioning & Attachment
• La Leche League International – Breastfeeding Positioning

Need more guidance or support with breastfeeding in Cayman?
Visit the Integra Healthcare, Katy Teasdale our Lactation Consultant for expert advice, newborn care, and postnatal support. We’re here to help you and your baby thrive.