Correct attachment of breastfeeding plays an important role in the smooth process of breastfeeding. If the attachment of breastfeeding is not correct, the baby will find it difficult to get breast milk optimally. Therefore, mothers need to know how to do the right breastfeeding attachment so that your little one gets enough milk.
Latching breastfeeding is the moment when the baby puts the nipple and areola (the dark area around the nipple) into his mouth and starts sucking the milk that comes out of his mother's breast.
However, breastfeeding does not always run smoothly. This may be because some breastfeeding mothers are still confused or have difficulty distinguishing between right and wrong breastfeeding latch or because milk production is low.
Signs of Wrong Latching on Breastfeeding
Failure to breastfeed can be caused by an error in positioning the baby's head and mouth on the mother's nipple. The wrong breastfeeding position can make Busui's nipples blister, so Busui feels uncomfortable to breastfeed.
If this happens, gradually the milk production will decrease and the little one may become less breastfed and lazy to breastfeed. As a result, it can be difficult for your little one to gain weight.
In addition, there are several other signs that indicate that breastfeeding is still lagging incorrectly, including:
- The mother's nipple and areola do not fully enter the baby's mouth
- Babies only suck on the nipple a few times and for a while, then fall asleep right away
- Baby seems to be squirming or keeps moving while feeding
- The tip of the mother's nipple looks tapered and chafed after breastfeeding
- Nipple pain when breastfeeding
Here's How to Stick to the Right Breastfeeding
Latching skills depend on the baby's ability to position the nipple in his mouth. Actually, babies naturally have the instinct to do this.
However, this can sometimes go smoothly. Some of the reasons why latching on breastfeeding may not be smooth is because the baby is not used to using the mother's breast to get food or because the breastfeeding mother does not know how to breastfeed properly.
If Busui doesn't know how to breastfeed properly, Busui can do the following tips:
1. Position the nipple into the baby's mouth correctly
This method is done by positioning the baby's face near the breast, then using Busui's other hand to hold the breast. Place the Busui's thumb on the top of the nipple and the other fingers on the bottom of the nipple, so that it forms the letter C. When your baby's mouth is wide open, bring your breast into his mouth.
Try to keep the nipple deep enough into the baby's mouth so that his lips cover the areola area of Busui.
2. Recognize the early signs of hunger in babies
When a baby is hungry, he will cry and suck on his fist or finger vigorously. If your little one shows these signs, Busui can immediately breastfeed him.
3. Breastfeed immediately if the baby shows early signs of hunger
If your little one is showing signs of hunger, you should breastfeed immediately. This is so that the baby does not rush when he tries to attach to the nipple.
Try not to wait until your baby is too hungry because breastfeeding when your baby is crying loudly can make it more difficult to start latching on to breastfeeding.
4. Avoid using pacifiers and baby gloves
The use of pacifiers and baby gloves on your little one can make it difficult for Busui to read signs when he is hungry. In addition, also avoid swaddling your little one's hands because Busui will also have a hard time knowing whether he is hungry or not.
Knowing how to properly latch on is something that requires patience and practice. Therefore, Busui does not need to be discouraged if he is not used to doing it.
If Busui has followed the steps to improve breastfeeding attachment above, but is still experiencing obstacles or difficulties in breastfeeding your little one, don't hesitate to consult a pediatrician or a lactation consultant.
To determine whether the breastfeeding attachment that Busui is doing is correct, the doctor will monitor and evaluate the way Busui breastfeeds the little one. After that, the doctor can give Busui tips and advice on how to properly latch on to breastfeeding.
