In fact, each baby and each woman discovers her own breastfeeding style. However, knowing how to do the correct grip is fundamental.
If you want to know how to do the correct grip, continue reading this article we have prepared for you!
Step by step guide on how to do the correct grip
Choosing the right time (hunger cues)
It is difficult to put a baby to the breast when he is angry and crying. Take advantage of your baby's first signs of hunger to offer the breast. This will make him more patient and more cooperative.
Get into a comfortable position
The first few times you breastfeed, you’ll spend a lot of time breastfeeding. So take some time to get comfortable. Choose the position that works best for you.
Whichever position you choose, your baby's entire body will be facing your chest. His ear, shoulder, and hip form a straight line.
Also, whatever position you choose, sitting or lying down, make sure your baby is taking a large part of the areola into his mouth, not just the nipple.
When your baby tries to reach for your breast with his hands, they often end up in his mouth. If his hands are getting in the way of latching on to your nipple, ask your husband or someone you trust to gently hold his hands. Once your baby lifts up and starts sucking, you should see his hands relax.
In the first few weeks, it is the sensation of the breast near the mouth that stimulates the baby's sucking reflex. If your baby sees your breast but does not touch it with his face, he is likely to open his mouth very little.
Bring him close enough to touch his chin to the skin of your breast, then he will likely open his mouth more easily.
Latching on to the breast
Once settled in, you and your baby are ready to grab:
- When her chin touches your breast, gently run your nipple over her upper lip.
- Wait until he opens his mouth wide as if he were going to yawn or as if he were getting ready to bite into a large apple.
- When your mouth is open, quickly bring it closer to your breast by pushing your shoulder blades apart with the palm of your hand.
In the first few days, you may need to start over a few times to get your baby to latch on properly. Sometimes your baby will close his mouth a little or completely before reaching the breast.
It may be painful for you. At first, it may take a while to get the hang of it. But with practice, your baby will learn and things will get easier.
Know if the grip is good
When your baby latches on well, not just the nipple, he has a large part of the areola in his mouth. This makes it easier for him to get milk.
If your baby feeds mainly from the nipple, this can create painful cracks and give you less milk. Some babies ask to drink too often, which further irritates the nipples. Other babies become tired and fall asleep without drinking enough.
You will know your baby is latching on well when:
- His mouth is open.
- It doesn't just capture the nipple, but a large part of the areola.
- Her lips are turned outwards.
- Your lower lip covers more of the areola than your upper lip. If necessary, gently squeeze your breast to see your lips.
- Your chin touches your breast and your nose is clean.
- You may hear or see swallowing.
If your nipples are sore, improve your latch. Breastfeeding doesn’t hurt. A good latch is key to pain-free breastfeeding!
