By Meaghan Selki, MS, IBCLC – The Milk Production Podcast

Breastfeeding is a special journey shared between a mom and her baby, but it isn’t always easy. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I see latch issues as one of the most common reasons parents experience nipple pain or stop breastfeeding earlier than planned.

A good latch is the foundation of comfortable, effective breastfeeding. It can mean the difference between painful, stressful feeds and a smooth, nourishing rhythm that works for both you and your baby. In this post, we’ll explore:

• What a latch is and why it matters
• The difference between shallow vs. deep latch
• Signs of a good latch
• Red flags that something is wrong
• When it’s time to call for help

What Is a Breastfeeding Latch?

A latch is how your baby attaches to the breast. It’s not just about being “on the nipple.”

• A deep, effective latch means your baby’s mouth covers more areola, the tongue cups the breast, and milk transfer happens effectively.
• A shallow latch often leads to pain, nipple trauma, and less milk intake.

Shallow Latch vs. Deep Latch

Shallow Latch

• Nipple isn’t deep enough in baby’s mouth
• Feeds are painful
• Clicking sounds or slipping off the breast
• Poor milk transfer

Deep Latch

• Baby’s mouth covers more areola
• Comfortable for mom after the first few sucks
• Effective milk transfer
• Less risk of nipple damage

Why Latch Matters for Breastfeeding Success

Latch affects everything:

• Comfort → a good latch prevents pain and trauma
• Milk transfer → baby gets enough milk at each feed
• Supply → an effective latch stimulates long-term milk production

Unresolved nipple pain is one of the main reasons moms stop breastfeeding earlier than they wanted.

Signs of a Good Latch

A good latch feels comfortable and shows these cues:
✔ Baby’s lips are flanged outward
✔ More areola visible above the lip than below
✔ Chin pressed into the breast, with jaw moving toward the ear
✔ Audible swallows during active feeding
✔ Breasts feel softer after the feed

Common Red Flags (and What to Do)

🚩 Pain that lasts beyond the first few seconds → Break the latch and try again; adjust positioning or latch depth; seek IBCLC support
🚩 Nipple trauma (compression, creasing, cracking, bleeding) → Break the latch and try again to achieve a deep, asymmetric latch; seek IBCLC support
🚩 Clicking sounds or slipping off → Signals shallow latch and poor milk transfer; deepen the latch; seek IBCLC support
🚩 Baby not gaining weight → Contact your pediatrician or IBCLC

Troubleshooting Latch Problems

• Positioning matters: Line baby nose-to-nipple, let the chin lead in, and aim for an asymmetric latch.
• Encourage a wide gape: Tickle the upper lip with your nipple to get baby to open wide.
• Try different holds: Cross-cradle, football hold, or laid-back breastfeeding (LBBF) can all help.
• Engorgement management: Use techniques like reverse pressure softening to make it easier for baby to latch.

When to Call for Help

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, nipple damage, or your baby isn’t gaining weight well, it’s time to get support. Latch issues affect supply, comfort, and your baby’s growth if they go unchecked.

📌 Don’t wait — schedule a virtual consult to get personalized guidance.

Key Takeaway

Latch is a skill that takes practice, patience, and sometimes professional help. With the right adjustments and support, breastfeeding can become more comfortable and effective for both you and your baby.

Remember: you don’t have to do this alone.

Related Resources

• How to Know Your Baby Is Getting Enough Milk (Episode #15)
• Nipple Care Guidance (Episode #11)
• Laid-Back Breastfeeding Resource (not mine, but useful)

FAQs

What is a shallow latch?
A shallow latch means baby is on the nipple but not deep enough on the breast. It usually causes pain and poor milk transfer.

How do I know if my baby has a good latch?
Look for flanged lips, chin pressed into the breast, audible swallows, and comfortable feeds after the first few sucks.

Is pain normal in the first weeks of breastfeeding?
Mild discomfort can happen as you and your baby learn, but ongoing or toe-curling pain is a red flag. Pain is not something you should “tough out.”

When should I see an IBCLC?
Any time pain persists, nipples are damaged, or baby’s growth is concerning. Early support makes a huge difference.

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