What is the recommended technique to promote effective breastfeeding latch?

• A. Latch onto nipple only
• B. Position baby with mouth wide open, latch onto the areola, and ensure chin and nose clearance
• C. Wait until baby cries to feed
• D. Place baby at breast without adjusting position

Answer: (B)

A good latch starts with the baby opening wide and taking a broad mouthful of the breast, not just the nipple. When the baby latches onto the areola with the lips flanged outward and the chin tucked toward the breast while the nose has clearance to breathe, suction is distributed over a larger area. This deep, wide latch promotes efficient milk transfer and protects the nipple from trauma because the infant is pulling from the areolar tissue rather than pinching the nipple alone. Position the baby so the mouth opens wide before bringing them to the breast, aim the nipple toward the roof of the mouth, and ensure the chin touches the breast with the nose free to breathe. Latching only the nipple or delaying feeding until the baby cries can lead to poor milk removal and nipple injury, while placing the baby at the breast without adjusting position often results in a shallow latch.