Signs of a good latch include the following:
- The latch feels comfortable to you and does not hurt or pinch.
- Your baby\’s chest rests against your body. Your baby does not have to turn his or her head while drinking.
- You see little or no areola (the darker skin around the nipple), depending on the size of your areola and the size of your baby\’s mouth.
- When your baby is positioned well, his or her mouth will be filled with breast.
- The baby\’s tongue is cupped under the breast so you might not see the baby\’s tongue.
- You hear or see your baby swallow. Some babies swallow so quietly that a pause in their breathing may be the only sign of swallowing.
- You see the baby\’s ears \”wiggle\” slightly.
- Your baby\’s lips turn outward like fish lips, not inward. You may not even be able to see the baby\’s bottom lip.
- Your baby\’s chin touches your breast.
You can get more information on Breastfeeding and related subjects on Women’s Health.gov