Latching difficulty is common in the first days and weeks. Various studies suggest a significant proportion of new mothers experience latch problems, though estimates vary between studies. Knowing the specific cause is generally the most effective path toward finding a solution.
Why Babies Struggle to Latch
Flat or inverted nipples
Standard breastfeeding advice assumes a protruding nipple, but some women have flat or inverted nipples — estimates of prevalence vary widely between studies. The baby needs to latch onto the areola, not just the nipple — but an inverted nipple gives them nothing to draw out initially. Nipple formers worn before feeds can help draw the nipple out.
Engorgement
When milk comes in on days 2–5, the breast can become hard and tight, making it impossible for a baby to open wide enough to latch. Expressing a small amount before offering the breast softens the areola and makes latching much easier.
Tongue-tie (ankyloglossia)
A tongue-tie restricts the movement of the tongue, making it hard to cup the breast and create suction. Symptoms include a clicking sound while feeding, nipple pain, and a baby who seems to "chew" rather than suck. A qualified lactation consultant can assess for tongue-tie and discuss options with you, which may include referral for clinical evaluation.
Nipple confusion
Babies who receive bottles in the first days may prefer the easier flow of a bottle teat. This isn't a character flaw — it's physics. The baby learns that less effort is required for the same reward. Paced bottle feeding can slow bottle flow to better mimic the breast.
Sleepy or jaundiced baby
Jaundice makes newborns very drowsy, meaning they lack the alertness and energy to latch effectively. Frequent, gentle rousing and skin-to-skin contact can help. Supplementing with expressed milk while jaundice clears protects nutrition without abandoning breastfeeding.
Practical Fixes to Try Today
Biological nurturing (laid-back position)
Recline at about 45° and place baby tummy-down on your chest. Gravity helps baby stay latched, and the position activates natural feeding reflexes. Many babies who refuse a cradle hold will latch readily in this position.
Express before latching
Hand-express a few drops of milk before offering the breast. The smell of milk triggers rooting reflexes, and softening the areola creates a better seal. This is especially helpful for engorged breasts.
Nipple sandwich technique
Compress the breast like a sandwich (parallel to the baby's mouth) so the nipple and areola form a shape the baby can take more easily. Aim the nipple toward the roof of the mouth, not the centre.
Skin-to-skin
Undress baby down to a nappy and hold them against your bare chest. Skin-to-skin activates newborn feeding behaviours — rooting, mouthing, bobbing — and can jumpstart latching even hours after a refused feed.
Paced bottle feeding for supplementing
If you need to supplement while working on the latch, use paced bottle feeding: hold the bottle horizontal, pause every 20–30 seconds, let baby lead the pace. This preserves breastfeeding instincts and prevents the baby from preferring the faster bottle flow.
When to Get Professional Help
Seek help from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) if:
- →You have persistent nipple pain despite adjusted positioning
- →You hear a clicking sound during every feed
- →Baby feeds for over an hour but still seems unsatisfied
- →You've tried every positioning tip without improvement
Latching problems are rarely permanent. Most resolve with targeted support. If breastfeeding doesn't become comfortable, combination feeding — using expressed milk or formula to fill the gap — keeps your baby nourished while you keep trying, or while you make an informed decision about what feeding approach works best for your family.