Hey Mama!
Becoming a new mom is a journey filled with incredible joy and excitement, but it can also come with unexpected challenges—especially when it comes to breastfeeding. Through the many issues amongst breastfeeding, one common issue many mothers face is what’s known as a “shallow latch.” When problems like this arise, it can be frustrating because oftentimes, breastfeeding is painted as a task that is easy, but I’m here to tell you that it’s not. It can take time for both mom and baby to get the hang of it. As a dietitian specializing in maternal health, I fully understand and can empathize with a mom on how a shallow latch can impact breastfeeding success, both nutritionally and emotionally, for new moms.
Whether you’re a first-time mom or experienced but facing new difficulties with latching, this guide will equip you with the tools to understand shallow latch breastfeeding and take proactive steps to ensure both you and your baby are getting the best nutrition and support. Remember, you are a crucial part of this journey, and your efforts can make a significant difference. Check out some of the articles within Everbee Nutrition on mental health for moms.
Table of Contents
What Is a Shallow Latch?
In simple terms, a shallow latch occurs when your baby only takes in the nipple rather than both the nipple and a significant portion of the areola during breastfeeding. A proper latch involves the baby’s mouth covering more of the breast tissue to create an effective seal and allow for optimal milk transfer. With a shallow latch, the baby may have difficulty extracting milk efficiently, leading to a cascade of issues for both mother and child.
Signs of a shallow latch may include:
- Nipple pain or soreness during and after breastfeeding
- Clicking sounds during feeding
- Baby appearing fussy or frustrated at the breast
- Low milk supply or slow weight gain in the baby
- Visibly pinched or flattened nipples after a feeding
Why Shallow Latch Breastfeeding Matters
Breastfeeding is about more than just providing food; it’s about building a bond and creating a foundation for lifelong health. A shallow latch can disrupt this process by causing both physical and emotional challenges. Here’s why addressing a shallow latch is crucial:
1. Nutritional Concerns for Baby
When your baby has a shallow latch, they may not be able to remove milk effectively from the breast. This inefficiency can lead to inadequate calorie intake, potentially impacting your baby’s growth and development. Inadequate milk transfer can also affect the overall breastfeeding experience by decreasing milk supply over time, as your body may not receive adequate stimulation to produce enough milk.
2. Pain and Discomfort for Mom
Shallow latching often leads to sore nipples, cracked skin, and even infections like mastitis. This discomfort can make breastfeeding feel discouraging or unbearable, which in turn can lead some mothers to consider weaning earlier than planned. By understanding how to correct a shallow latch, you can avoid pain and continue breastfeeding more comfortably.
3. Emotional Stress
Breastfeeding challenges can take an emotional toll. The stress of trying to feed your baby while enduring pain and watching them struggle can be overwhelming. Many moms feel guilt or frustration, questioning their ability to breastfeed successfully. However, it’s important to remember that breastfeeding challenges are common, and with the right support, you can overcome them. You are not alone in this journey, and many mothers have successfully navigated these challenges.
Causes of Shallow Latch Breastfeeding
Understanding why a shallow latch occurs can help you better address the issue. Several factors can contribute to this common breastfeeding problem:
1. Positioning Issues
One of the most common reasons for a shallow latch is improper positioning. If your baby is not lined up correctly with your breast, they may not be able to latch deeply. A good breastfeeding position is key to achieving a proper latch, allowing your baby to get the maximum amount of milk without causing discomfort for you.
2. Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) and lip-tie are conditions where a piece of tissue restricts the movement of the tongue or upper lip, making it difficult for the baby to open their mouth wide enough for a deep latch. A healthcare professional can diagnose this, and in some cases, a minor procedure to release the tongue or lip may be necessary to improve latch and milk transfer.
3. Premature or Small Babies
Premature or small-for-gestational-age (SGA) babies may have more difficulty achieving a deep latch due to their smaller mouths. Additionally, they may have less energy to suck effectively, which can exacerbate the problem. In these cases, extra patience, guidance, and the right techniques are essential.
4. Breast Engorgement
When your breasts become overly full or engorged, they can become firm and difficult for your baby to latch onto properly. This often happens in the early days after birth when milk supply is being established. Addressing engorgement promptly can help make it easier for your baby to achieve a deeper latch.
5. Inverted or Flat Nipples
In some cases, moms have flat or inverted nipples, which can make latching difficult for the baby. While this condition doesn’t prevent breastfeeding, it may require some adjustments or tools (like nipple shields) to help your baby latch more effectively.
To get more one on one help regarding latch issues and correcting them, visit ILCA to find an IBCLC near you.
Correcting a Shallow Latch
Now that we’ve covered the reasons for and effects of a shallow latch, let’s focus on practical steps you can take to correct it. As a lactation consultant, I always tell moms that achieving a good latch is a learning process, and with persistence, you can improve your breastfeeding experience. Here are strategies that can help you and your baby achieve a deeper, more effective latch.
1. Breastfeeding Positions to Improve Latch
One of the easiest ways to correct a shallow latch is by adjusting your breastfeeding position. Here are a few positions to try:
- Cradle Hold: In this classic position, your baby is held horizontally across your body with their head resting in the crook of your arm. Make sure your baby’s mouth is aligned with your nipple and that their body is close to yours.
- Cross-Cradle Hold: Similar to the cradle hold but with extra support for your baby’s head. This can give you more control in helping your baby latch deeply.
- Football Hold: This position is ideal for moms with larger breasts or those recovering from a C-section. In the football hold, your baby is tucked under your arm with their head near your breast, allowing you to guide their mouth to the nipple.
- Side-Lying Position: This position is great for nighttime feedings. Lying on your side, you can bring your baby close to your breast while both of you rest. Ensure your baby’s mouth is wide open and positioned for a deep latch.
2. Baby-Led Latching (Biological Nurturing)
Allowing your baby to initiate the latch can sometimes naturally lead to a deeper latch. In baby-led latching, you hold your baby skin-to-skin in a semi-upright position and allow them to root toward the breast and latch on their own. This method is gentle and can often result in a better latch because your baby is guiding the process.
3. Paced Bottle Feeding (If Supplementing)
If you are supplementing breastfeeding with bottle feeding, using a technique called paced feeding can help mimic the breastfeeding experience and prevent latch issues. Paced feeding involves holding the bottle horizontally and letting the baby suck in a more controlled manner, which helps them maintain their natural sucking reflex when breastfeeding.
4. Nipple Shield Use
For moms with flat or inverted nipples, or those experiencing pain from a shallow latch, using a nipple shield may be helpful. A nipple shield is a thin, flexible silicone cover that fits over the nipple and can help the baby achieve a deeper latch. It’s best to work with a lactation consultant if you are considering using a nipple shield to ensure proper usage and to avoid disrupting milk supply.
5. Expressing Milk to Soften Engorged Breasts
If engorgement is making it difficult for your baby to latch deeply, hand-expressing or using a breast pump to soften the breast before feeding can help. This will make it easier for your baby to latch onto the softer tissue, leading to a more effective feed.
6. Seeking Professional Help
If you’re still struggling with a shallow latch despite trying different positions and techniques, consider reaching out to a lactation consultant. Lactation consultants are trained to help moms overcome breastfeeding challenges, including latch issues, and can provide personalized advice and support tailored to your unique situation.
Nutrition and Shallow Latch: A Dietitian’s Perspective
As a dietitian, I understand the important role nutrition plays for both mom and baby during the breastfeeding journey. A shallow latch can sometimes hinder the baby’s ability to get enough milk, leading to slower weight gain. Therefore, it’s essential to focus on your baby’s growth markers and ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need, especially in the first few months of life. Read more on EverbeeNu.
Here’s how you can support your baby’s nutrition while addressing latch issues:
1. Keep an Eye on Growth
Babies who are not latching well may not get enough milk, which could impact their growth. Regularly monitor your baby’s weight and growth chart. If there is slow weight gain or concerns about milk intake, consult your healthcare provider.
2. Maintain Your Own Nutrition
Breastfeeding can burn a lot of energy, so it’s crucial to maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Focus on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is also essential for milk production, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
3. Pump and Store
If your baby is struggling with shallow latch breastfeeding and isn’t getting enough milk directly from the breast, you may