WHAT YOUR BABY'S LATCH IS ACTUALLY TELLING YOU

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Every unlatch, every clicking sound, every frustrated cry at the breast is a message. The problem is, nobody teaches new mamas how to read it.

As an IBCLC with a NICU background, I have spent years learning the language of babies at the breast. And once you understand what to look for, a latch tells you a tremendous amount about what is — and is not — working.

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THE CLICK

That clicking sound during nursing? It is not just annoying. It is a sign that your baby is losing suction during the feed. This can happen because of a shallow latch, a high palate, a tongue that cannot maintain the seal, or even air being drawn in. Clicking is almost always worth investigating because it typically means milk transfer is being compromised.

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THE CONSTANT UNLATCHING

If your baby is latching, feeding for a moment, then pulling off repeatedly — your baby may be working harder than they should to get milk. This could signal a slow letdown, a tight latch that is restricting flow, or a baby who is getting frustrated with flow that is either too fast or too slow for their current ability.

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THE CRYING AT THE BREAST

This one breaks mamas' hearts. When a baby cries at the breast, the instinct is to assume there is no milk. But often, it is about the work required to get it. A baby who is tired, gassy, overstimulated, or has an oral restriction may pull off and cry — not because you do not have milk, but because getting it is hard right now.

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WHAT TO DO WITH THE MESSAGE

The first step is to stop assuming the worst and start getting curious. What is your baby trying to tell you? What in the mechanics might need adjusting?

That is exactly what a lactation consultation is for. We read the whole picture together — your baby's behavior, your anatomy, your supply, and your goals — and we build a plan.

Book your consultation at the link in bio. Your baby has been talking. Let us figure out what they are saying.

With Gratitude,

Tiffani Dickerson RN IBCLC