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How to know if you are breast-feeding correctly

Healthwise
By Kathe Gallagher, MSW

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Breast-feeding is a learned skill. As you first start breast-feeding, you may wonder if your baby is properly latched on to your breast and getting milk.

Your baby is feeding well when:

  • His or her mouth is wide open, covering a lot of the areola, and the lips are curled out.
  • His or her chin and nose rest comfortably against the breast.
  • Suckling is deep and rhythmic, with short pauses. You should be able see and hear your baby swallowing.
  • You do not feel pain in your nipple after the session begins.

Credits

Author Kathe Gallagher, MSW
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Denele Ivins
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Last Updated May 10, 2007
Last Updated: 05/10/2007