Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful part of motherhood, but let’s be real—it doesn’t always come easily. A good first latch is everything. It sets the tone for your entire breastfeeding journey, making the difference between a smooth, confidence-boosting start and a stressful, painful one.
As a mama of five and an IBCLC, I’ve seen firsthand how much easier things go when moms are prepared. So, let’s talk about what really matters when it comes to getting that perfect first latch—and how you can make it happen.
Why the First Latch Matters More Than You Think
Your baby’s first latch isn’t just about getting milk—it’s about comfort, confidence, and establishing a strong milk supply. When babies latch deeply and effectively, breastfeeding feels natural and pain-free. When they don’t? Cracked nipples, frustration, and unnecessary struggles often follow.
Unfortunately, many moms get mixed advice in the hospital. Not every nurse or doctor is a lactation expert, and it’s okay to ask, “Do you have specialized breastfeeding training?” If the answer is no, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and seek guidance from an IBCLC
The Key to a Pain-Free First Latch
The best way to set yourself up for success is to create the right environment from the start. Here’s how:
✅ Skin-to-skin contact – The first hour after birth (often called the Golden Hour) is your baby’s instinctual time to find the breast and latch naturally.
✅ Let baby lead with their chin – A deep latch starts when your baby’s chin touches your breast first, allowing them to open wide.
✅ Try laid-back or side-lying positions – These are often easier than the traditional cradle hold, helping your baby’s natural reflexes do the work.
✅ Avoid pushing your baby’s head – This can trigger their instinct to pull away, making latching harder. Instead, support their shoulders and let them take the lead.
The Magic of the Breast Crawl
Did you know your baby is born with an instinct to find your breast all on their own? It’s called the breast crawl, and it’s incredible to watch! When placed on your chest, your newborn will use their senses to wiggle their way to the breast and latch instinctively. While this isn’t always possible in a hospital setting, it’s a great way to encourage a deep, natural latch if you can make it happen.
When to Get Breastfeeding Help
If breastfeeding feels painful, or your baby seems frustrated, don’t wait to get help. You don’t have to suffer through cracked nipples or constant guessing. Inside The Confident MamaBear Society, I teach moms exactly how to get their baby latched comfortably from day one—so you can enjoy breastfeeding instead of dreading it.
Trust Your Instincts, Mama
At the end of the day, your intuition is powerful. You and your baby were made for this. With the right support and guidance, you can master your first latch and breastfeed with confidence.
Want more expert breastfeeding tips? Access my FREE Secrets to a First Latch without Pain workshop now . You’ve got this, mama. Stay fierce, trust your instincts, and let’s make breastfeeding the empowering journey it’s meant to be!
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