what does a good latch feel like?

aylafsu88

I am a FTM and am trying to establish breast feeding.  I am producing good colostrum and I think my milk is beginning to come in.  My LO is eager to latch and suck.  Right now I feel a burning/pulling sensation when she latches on. It gets less drastic as she nurses.  I am not sure what a good latch should feel like, so I dont know if maybe she is not position correctly.  I am trying to set up a meeting with a lactation consultant but want to get any advice from you ladies in the meantime!!

What should a good latch feel like?

tokenhoser

If the pain goes away within a few seconds of latching, you're probably fine. Let-down can feel like burning. I had pain on latching for a few seconds of every feed for the first 2-3 weeks. I never had any damage, though. If you don't have cracking/bleeding, that's another sign that things are going well.

If you have pain that lasts the whole feed, or if your nipples are bleeding, that's a definite sign the latch needs help.

julia0ron

I agree with the previous poster...

 Also, now that the "beginner's" nipple pain/discomfort is gone associated with breastfeeding is gone for me a GOOD latch is when I can barely feel my LO suckling. If i can hear popping or clicking or if I'm uncomfortable, I remove her from my breast and try to latch her on again.

 

Good luck!

lisac1017

I agree with Tokenhoser, but be prepared for your nipples to HURT for a while too even with a good latch.  Mine were killing me for the first few minutes each time he nursed during weeks 2 & 3 then suddenly were fine.  I used Earth Mama Angel Baby nipple butter.  If you don't have it yet, I'd suggest getting some. I liked it a lot more than lanolin. Wish I could give you mine - i've got 1/2 of a canister left! 

Congrats and good luck!  

aylafsu88

Thanks for the encouragement ladies!!  I am trying to hang in there for LO because BF is so important! I just got my milk in so i am hoping that we can get the latch right and help reduce the initial tenderness!