Breastfeeding Latch On Makes A Breast MIlk Supply .... Or Breaks It!

When breastfeeding you want to make sure baby has a good latch. The best time to work on this is immediately after birth. While you are in the hospital, you will have access to the lactation consultant. By the time you are discharged, you will want to have established a good latch on.

Latch on will make or break your milk supply. If baby is latching on incorrectly, they will not be able to breastfeed effectively. This will trick your body into thinking that not much breast milk is needed. Then you will start a cycle of low milk supply.

Some moms simply aren't sure if baby is latching on correctly. If baby appears to be breastfeeding ok, I wouldn't worry so much. Painful nipples does not mean that baby is latching on incorrectly. Even with a good latch, your nipples are going to hurt for at least a week after you start breastfeeding, maybe longer. Use a good nipple creme to help soothe it. If the pain is unbearable, make an appointment with the lactation consultant. If something doesn't seem right, make an appointment with the LC. She can also weigh baby before and after breastfeeding to make sure baby is getting enough milk.

The above video is really good for explaining latch on. It's not very long, but it covers all the basics.

If for some reason breastfeeding latch isn't working, you can still breastfeed. You will probably need to use a pump, and pump every 2 to 3 hours. The best way to perfect the latch on is simply by practice though. Just keep trying. Even the most experienced breastfeeders were newbies at one time. As baby grows older, it will be easier for both of you. You can also try different breastfeeding positions to help baby latch on easier. For example, if you usually attempt breastfeeding laying down, try sitting up. An experienced lactation consultant can definitely help with all of this.

If you do experience low milk supply, try Breastea from http://www.breastea.com to increase your milk supply. They also offer affordable breastfeeding products like nipple creams, nursing shirts, baby clothing etc.