A latch is a breast-feeding term that describes how well your baby latches onto the mother's nipple when feeding. A good latch equals a better feeding for the baby--and less discomfort or pain for the mother. While breast-feeding is instinctual for a baby, it may take some time and practice to find a hold and latch where mom and baby have the best breast-feeding experience possible. The ultimate goal for breast-feeding is to help the baby find what is known as "the comfort zone" where the best latch is achieved.
Sight
Many visual cues help you identify that your baby has a good latch. The first is your baby's positioning on the areola (the colored skin around the nipple). The top portion of the areola should be evident above your baby's upper lip. A small amount of the bottom of the areola also will be present; however, the ratio should be that more areola is visible on the top portion. The baby's mouth should be flared out on either side of the breast and the lips should appear relaxed, not pursed, tucked in or with gums bared. The tongue should be resting underneath the breast.
The baby's chin should be resting to slightly pressed onto the breast while the nose may be barely touching the breast. This positioning ensures the baby is able to breathe comfortably while feeding. You may also see his ears wiggling and his cheeks rounded, and his hands should be open, not clinched or flailing.
The best sign of a good latch is that the baby feels peaceful or relaxed, almost as if he will drift off to sleep following his feeding.
Sound
In addition to visual cues, there are many auditory signals that indicate your baby has a good latch. These include the sound of swallowing as your baby is able to freely and comfortably access milk. If you hear clicking or smacking, these may mean that you should transition to a position where only swallowing sounds are heard.
Sensation
During the first week of breast-feeding, it is natural to experience some element of pain or discomfort as the milk ducts activate and you become accustomed to breast-feeding. However, nursing pain should be temporary and should typically subside after you are able to help your baby latch onto her comfort zone. When you have established a good latch, typically the sensation feels like a "pins and needles" sensation as milk is first released. Following that, you should not experience any residual pain or discomfort.
