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How to Identify and fix a Bad Breastfeeding Latch | Good Latch Techniques

A good latch is the foundation of successful breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should feel comfortable and help your baby grow well. But if your baby isn’t latched on properly, it can cause nipple pain, poor milk flow, and a fussy baby.


Signs of a Bad Latch


Here’s how to tell if the latch may be the problem:

  • Your nipples hurt, crack or bleed

  • Baby makes clicking or smacking noises while feeding

  • Baby keeps falling asleep during feeds

  • Baby seems hungry again soon after

  • Your nipples look flat, white or bent after feeding

Common signs of Bad Latch for mothers
Common signs of Bad Latch for mothers

Five illustrations of breastfeeding positions on a blue background: reclining, under-arm, cradle, side-lying, and cross-cradle.
Illustrations showing of common breastfeeding positions, including the reclining position, under-arm or football hold, cradle hold, side lying position, and cross-cradle hold. Source: unicef.org

How to Fix a Bad Latch

Try these steps to help your baby latch better:

  1. If it hurts, unlatch and try again – Gently put a clean finger in baby’s mouth to break the seal, then try again.

  2. Tummy-to-tummy – Your baby’s chest should face your chest, not just their head turned.

  3. Nose to nipple – Line up baby’s nose with your nipple so they lift their head and open wide.

  4. Wait for a big open mouth –Like a big yawn! Then quickly bring baby to the breast.

  5. Try different breastfeeding positions – Cradle hold, cross-cradle, side-lying, reclining or laid-back or underarm hold—see what works best for both of you.


What a Good Latch Looks Like

  1. Baby’s mouth is open wide

  2. Lips are turned out like a fish

  3. Baby has a big mouthful of breast, not just the nipple

  4. More of the areola (dark skin around nipple) is visible above baby’s top lip than below the bottom

  5. Feeding feels comfortable—not painful


Still Hurting?

Breastfeeding should not hurt. If you’re still in pain or worried about your baby’s latch, talk to a lactation consultant. Help is available, and small changes can make a big difference!

At Leto, we do more than treat symptoms—we care for the whole you. Our unique approach blends advanced medical services with compassionate, personalized care to support your physical, emotional, and overall well-being. Whether it’s a consultation, diagnosis, or treatment, we’re here to guide you on a healthier, happier journey.


Redefine your healthcare experience. Connect with us today!

About the Author

This article was written by Leto Editorial Team - Dr. Prasanna & Dr. Saktipriya, Consultant Pediatrician & Certified Lactation Consultant, Leto Centre for Health, Ashok Nagar, Chennai

Consult our experts today!


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