Welcoming a baby into the world is an exciting event, especially if you're a first-time mom. However, motherhood also comes with unique challenges. If you're breastfeeding your little one, you may experience difficulty getting them to latch to the breast at first. This is a common issue and not a cause for concern. Discover some tips recommended by family medicine professionals to overcome this hurdle below.

How Can You Get Your Child to Latch?

1. Start Early

Start breastfeeding as soon as possible to improve the baby's odds of their natural instincts to latch kicking in. Plus, you will have a strong milk supply during this time. If possible, you should begin the process an hour after their birth. Some hospitals and family medicine centers have nurses or lactation specialists to help you get started.

2. Make Yourself Comfortable

Breastfeeding requires patience, so get cozy. Many moms have a dedicated nursing seat for this purpose. A rocking chair is a great pick, as the motion can help soothe the little one.

You can also breastfeed in a slightly reclined position of about 45 degrees. This way, gravity will help cushion the baby against your body, so you don't have to lift as much. The angle also makes it easier for the infant to lift and turn their head and use their hands to help with latching.

3. Position Your Baby Appropriately

Once you're situated, get your little one into position. A common mistake new moms make is to place the baby's mouth opposite the nipple. Instead, position the child directly across to encourage a deeper latch. Wait for the baby to open their mouth as wide as possible and then bring them to your breast. Be patient, as they won't latch on immediately but will nuzzle you for a bit to find the nipple.

HDR Healthcare Network is committed to providing parents with the knowledge they need to raise happy and healthy kids. These healthcare providers have been serving Upper Manhattan and the Bronx, NY, since 2013. They offer compassionate care to people from all walks of life, and all of their providers are bilingual. Visit their website for a list of their services, including pediatrics, adult medicine, family medicine, and urgent care. For questions, call (929) 256-5005.