Tools for a wide latch

Fri Jul 20, 2012 2:46 am

Hello,

My son is 4 weeks old. We are having issues with breastfeeding. Basically, he never had a good latch, so he wasn't transfer milk very efficiently. I had to start pumping and bottle feeding him. He got used to "latching on" to a bottle, so now he won't open wide enough to get anything but a shallow latch. He will comfort nurse, but he never swallows since he isn't latched on correctly. I had pre and post weight checks done to see how much milk he was actually transferring, and he transfers about 1/4 ounce over an hour long nursing session. I have plenty of supply. I pump about 30 ounces daily.

Does anyone have any tricks for reteaching a baby to open wide? I have tried tickling him from nose to chin with my nipple (and the bottle's), and it doesn't work. He won't open wide for the bottle either. He just ends up in hysterics if I take longer then 15 seconds to give him the bottle.

Also, every time he opens "wide," he puts his tongue to the roof of his mouth. This also makes it difficult to get a good latch. Any advice on how to train him to put his tongue down?

Thanks!

"A sister is one who reaches for your hand, and touches your heart." -Author Unknown

Fri Jul 20, 2012 8:26 am

Congrats on your little one. Sorry baby is struggling, but glad your supply is good. Have you worked with a lactation consultant? It sounds like hands-on help might be needed.

Here's info. on latch from Kellymom:
http://kellymom.com/ages/newborn/bf-basics/latch-resources/

When trying to push his chin down, use gentle pressure. I assume you have tried various nursing positions as well--sidelying, lying on your back, etc. If not, maybe he would be more relaxed in a different position. Sorry I can't give more advice.

Keep us updated if you find something that works.

Co-host: Breastfeeding Support
mkjright @ g mail.com
We happily nursed for 26 months

Fri Jul 20, 2012 4:17 pm

I was going to suggest what Karen did. Hopefully it helps.

~Natalie~ Co-Leader of Breastfeeding Zone-email- ctcmsmombzhost @ gmail. com