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Successful
breastfeeding depends on baby latching on properly. It’s important that
you get an inch of the areola tissue surrounding the nipple or at least
a good amount of it into baby’s mouth. Tickle baby’s mouth first with
your nipple. When baby opens wide, quickly pull him toward your breast
and position him on your nipple. You may have to push the areola area
into his mouth when open wide.
It’s the compression of the milk sinuses beneath
the areola that cause the milk to be drawn out through the nipple.
Baby’s sucking action will cause let down, and his/her tongue resting on
top of the lower gum will draw the milk out. If baby latches on to only
the nipples, he/she will not get much milk and you will be very sore. If
you’re not sure if baby is sucking on enough of the areola area, ask a
nurse before you go home or consult with our lactation center.
Remember:
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Make sure you are tummy to tummy with baby. Hold
your breast in a “C” as shown and gently lift the breast. Make sure your
fingers are well away from the areola area.
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Gently move your nipple back and forth over baby’s
lower lip. This will elicit the rooting response.
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When baby opens wide, quickly pull him/her toward
your breast and put him/her on your nipple. Do not let baby latch on to
only your nipple. This will cause soreness and cracking and baby will
not get enough milk.
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