| The rooting reflex will help your baby to latch on to your breast. This is the reflex that causes him to search for the breast when his lips or cheek is lightly stroked.
To begin, once you have your baby positioned, hold your breast between your thumb and first two fingers, with your thumb on top. Next, touch your nipple against his lower lip, which will cause him to open his mouth. Now, place the nipple and areola (the dark area around the nipple) inside his mouth, aiming the nipple for the roof of his mouth. You will actually be moving your baby rapidly towards your breast and guiding the nipple and areola into his wide open mouth.
Your baby's mouth should close around the areola and not just the nipple, since sucking on the nipple will make it sore and your baby will not get much milk. And his chin will probably be buried in the breast tissue.
Once the areola is well inside your baby's mouth, he will form a seal around the breast and his tongue will thrust upwards, causing milk to be released. You may need to reposition your baby if his nose is blocked or if he seems to be twisting or bending to reach the breast.
If your baby is properly latched on, nursing should not hurt. Also, you should be able to see the signs of effective nursing, with your baby swallowing milk as he gets into a regular rhythm of sucking.
Breastfeeding Resources:
- When Latching: a great guide to latching on effectively when breastfeeding, with pictures and step by step instructions.
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