Latch & Position Mastery

Breastfeeding isn’t just instinct—it’s a learned skill for both you and your baby. And the secret to getting off to a great start? It all begins with how you position and latch. In this quick guide, we’ll break down the essentials so you can feel confident, comfortable, and connected from the very beginning.

Hopefully, this serves as a helpful refresher from our prenatal consult, and a go-to guide as you get started.

LEARN IN 5 STEPS

BE READY FOR THE GOLDEN HOUR

It’s all about the pillows, position, alignment, and technique! Let’s set you and your baby up for success.

GET COZY #1

Grab a breastfeeding pillow—or stack 2-3 regular pillows. Comfort is key! Your baby is likely skin-to-skin with you right now (which is perfect). As soon as you see hunger cues—like: Smacking lips, Head bobbing, Licking hands …it’s go time.

POSITION LIKE A PRO #2

Choose a hold that feels right for you: Cross-cradle (most control), Football hold (great for C-sections or twins), Cradle hold (classic and comfy). Set your pillows to bring baby up to the level of your breast—don’t hunch down to them.

CHECK ALIGNMENT #3

Make sure baby’s body forms a straight line:

Ear, shoulder, and hip aligned.

Tummy to tummy with you.

Areola should rest lightly on baby’s chin.

THE LATCH #4

Use one hand to support your baby, the other to shape your breast into a C-hold. Thumb on top, fingers underneath, gently compress to make the breast easier to latch, aim your nipple toward baby’s nose. As baby opens wide, bring them onto the breast (not the other way around). Baby’s mouth should cover most of the areola—not just the nipple.

WATCH THE FEED #5

Look for: Strong, rhythmic suckling (about 8–10 sucks), A pause, then a soft “K” sound—that’s swallowing! Feeding can last 20–40 minutes, but time isn’t everything. Focus on quality of latch and swallowing—not just the clock. Watch this quick 2 minute video below.