STOP Breastfeeding Pain Once and For All

Breastfeeding is natural—but that doesn't mean it always comes naturally. One of the most effective tools for a smooth, comfortable, and successful latch is the acronym LATCH. Here’s how each letter supports both mom and baby:

🔤 L – Lower baby’s nose opposite the nipple
Position your baby so their nose is in line with your nipple—not their mouth. This encourages them to tilt their head back slightly, helping them take a deep latch that’s more effective and less painful for you and your nipples.

🔤 A – Aim for an asymmetric latch
Instead of a straight-on latch, guide your baby to take in more of the lower part of the areola. This asymmetry helps the nipple reach the back of your baby’s mouth, minimizing soreness and improving milk transfer.

🔤 T – Tongue down and forward
Make sure your baby’s tongue is extended over the bottom gum before latching. A proper tongue position allows your baby to form a vacuum and extract milk efficiently. You may hear rhythmic suckling or see their jaw moving deeply if their tongue is working well.

🔤 C – Chin touches the breast first
Lead with the chin! When your baby’s chin touches your breast before the mouth latches on, it promotes a wide-open gape and ensures a deeper, more effective latch, again, reducing nipple pain and maximizing milk flow.

🔤 H – Hands-free support for breast and baby’s head
Position yourself comfortably so that your hands are free or use pillows or a nursing cushion for support. You want to limit how much you are putting your hands on your breast. We want to avoid “sandwiching” the breast as this can prevent your baby from getting their deepest, most comfortable latch.

Also, Try not to hold the back of your baby’s head. This limits their ability to tilt their head back and open their mouth wider.

Need help finding lactation support resources in your area? Email me at [email protected] for guidance on resources to help you on your way.

Practicing LATCH doesn’t just make breastfeeding more comfortable—it can also prevent common issues like nipple trauma, poor milk transfer, and fussiness at the breast. Whether you’re a new parent or supporting someone who is, remembering LATCH is a powerful way to make breastfeeding smoother for everyone.