🤱How to Achieve a Deep Latch for Comfortable & Effective Breastfeeding
A deep latch is one of the most important foundations of successful breastfeeding — but it doesn't always come naturally, especially in the early days. Whether you’re nursing your first baby or just need a little support, understanding how to achieve a deep, effective latch can make all the difference in your comfort and your baby’s feeding success.
As an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant), I work with families every day to troubleshoot latch issues and support confident, pain-free feeding. Here’s what you need to know.
💡 What Is a “Deep Latch,” and Why Does It Matter?
A deep latch means your baby is taking more than just the nipple into their mouth — they’re also drawing in a good portion of the areola (the darker area around the nipple). This allows the nipple to sit deep in the baby’s mouth, away from friction, and lets the baby use their tongue and jaw to effectively remove milk.
With a deep latch, you’re more likely to experience:
Less nipple pain and damage
Better milk transfer
More efficient feeds
Improved weight gain and satisfaction for baby
👶 How to Get a Deep Latch: Step-by-Step
Here’s a general guide you can try at home. (Tip: It's always okay to ask for help if it’s not working — that's what lactation consultants are for!)
1. Start With Baby Calm and Ready
Try to feed your baby early in hunger cues — rooting, sucking on hands, or turning their head. If baby is crying, pause and soothe first.
2. Position Your Baby Well
Hold baby tummy-to-tummy with you. Their head, neck, and body should be in a straight line. You can try:
Cross-cradle hold (great for newborns)
Football/clutch hold
Side-lying position (especially helpful for C-section recovery)
Make sure baby’s nose is aligned with your nipple, not their mouth — this encourages them to tilt their head back slightly and latch deeply.
3. Encourage a Wide Open Mouth
Gently tickle baby’s upper lip with your nipple until they open wide, like a yawn.
Wait for a wide gape — think “big mouth sandwich” — and then...
4. Bring Baby to Breast (Not Breast to Baby)
As baby opens wide, quickly bring them toward your breast chin first, aiming your nipple toward the roof of their mouth.
The goal is for baby to take in a large mouthful of breast, not just the tip of the nipple.
✅ Signs of a Good, Deep Latch
Baby’s chin touches the breast, nose is free
More of the bottom areola is in baby’s mouth than the top
Lips are flanged outward (like fish lips)
No clicking or popping sounds
Feeds are comfortable — no pinching, burning, or sharp pain
🚩 When to Ask for Help
Sometimes a shallow latch isn’t just about technique. If you’re trying everything and still experiencing:
Persistent nipple pain or damage
Poor weight gain
Gassy or fussy baby
Clicking sounds or slipping off the breast
Suspected tongue tie
…it’s a good idea to get an expert assessment.
As both an IBCLC and a speech-language pathologist, I specialize in helping babies with oral motor challenges, tongue ties, and feeding difficulties. We’ll work together to find solutions that support both comfort and development.
💬 Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding shouldn’t hurt. With the right positioning, patience, and support, most families can achieve a deep latch that feels good and helps baby grow and thrive.
Need help troubleshooting latch issues? I offer in-home and in-office lactation consultations in Greenville, Easley, and Powdersville, SC. Contact me today!
