One of the most intimate and beautiful ways of bonding with your baby is through breastfeeding. However, for many women, the process can be difficult, defeating, and even painful, leaving some individuals to feel as if they’re doing it wrong or “not good enough.” The reality is that while breastfeeding is not for every woman, it can be a positive experience for those who choose to pursue it. If your baby is struggling to latch, here are four helpful tips to make the process easier for you and your little one.
Make the Environment Comfortable for You and Your Baby
Overstimulation, bright lights, and loud noises do not make for a pleasant or easygoing breastfeeding environment. Instead, look for ways to create a more comfortable and peaceful atmosphere.
Find a quiet room and a comfortable chair that you can sit in with your baby. Dim any bright lights and hold your child close to your chest for warmth and comfort. Some infants respond well to either complete quiet or soft sounds, so if yours prefers the latter, find soothing music to help them feel more at ease.
Once they begin to feel safe and relaxed, they’ll be more apt to latch and begin nursing.
Use Nipple Shields to Minimize Discomfort
If your baby struggles to latch, it may be that your nipples are too large, or they have a smaller mouth that makes it difficult. Many times, this can lead to fussiness and anxiety for you and your little one. To remedy the problem, try using a nipple shield.
These small applicators can be placed over the nipple area, making it easier for your baby to latch. The suction will encourage the milk to release and flow through the shield to your baby’s mouth. These shields are also helpful if you experience sore nipples, as they relieve some of the pressure that is applied when your baby begins to suck.
Don’t Dismiss the Art of Pumping
For some women, the idea of pumping seems like a bothersome and embarrassing practice. However, it can be highly beneficial, especially if engorgement is a problem.
When your breasts are engorged, your baby will have a harder time latching because your nipples are flatter. By pumping, you help to release some of the milk (while saving it for later), making it easier for your baby to latch so that you can begin to breastfeed.
Inquire From a Specialist About the Potential of a Lip- or Tongue-Tie
If you have tried several methods and nothing seems to be working, it may be that your baby has a lip- or tongue-tie. When looking inside their mouth, you may see a small, thick, restricted band of tissue behind the upper lip or underneath the tongue. Either can make it difficult for your baby to latch because they’re unable to place their mouth around the entirety of the nipple. If this is the problem, you’ll need to seek professional help from a dentist who has special training in treating lip and tongue ties.
With careful examination, it can be determined if your little one needs to undergo a frenectomy. This involves gently releasing the banded tissue using a gentle laser procedure so that the lip and/or tongue begins to move more freely. When this happens, you can immediately begin to nurse your little one, who will be able to latch more effectively than before.
Don’t let the struggles of breastfeeding make you feel hopeless. By trying the various tips provided above, you can soon discover the joys of this beautiful bonding experience between you and your baby.
About the Author
Dr. Andrea Csok is a dentist and tongue-tie expert who is also a mother of two. After completing Dr. Baxter’s Tongue-Tie Academy course, she attended the International Affiliation of Tongue-Tie Professionals conference to better understand the process as well as meet various experts in the field. Having two children of her own who dealt with lip and tongue ties, she understands the struggle. If your baby is having trouble trying to latch and you need help, visit our website or call (216) 292-3600.