Breastfeeding Tips First Time Mama
The First Latch: More About Connection, Less About Perfection
You’ve just given birth, and now your baby is on your chest, rooting around, looking for their first meal. Here’s the good news—you don’t have to stress about getting the “perfect” latch right away. Your baby was born knowing what to do, and this first feed is more about connection than technique.
So, take a deep breath. Instead of trying to force a deep, textbook-perfect latch, let your baby explore. They’ll bob their head, lick, and nuzzle around before finding your nipple on their own—this is called the breast crawl, and it’s amazing to watch.
Why the First Latch Is Important
This early nursing session isn’t just about feeding—it’s about bonding, calming your baby, and kickstarting your milk supply. It also:
🗸 Releases oxytocin (the love hormone), helping both of you feel relaxed.
🗸 Encourages milk production by stimulating your body’s supply-and-demand system.
🗸 Helps baby feel secure—being close to you is their safest, happiest place.
How to Support Your Baby’s First Latch (Without Overthinking It)
1️⃣ Go Skin-to-Skin – Hold your baby against your bare chest. This helps regulate their temperature, breathing, and instincts to latch.
2️⃣ Let Baby Lead – Instead of pushing their head onto your breast, let them bob, nuzzle, and find their way.
3️⃣ Relax and Observe – Unless it’s toe-curling painful, let them figure it out. They may latch, unlatch, and try again. That’s normal!
4️⃣ Need a Little Help? – If the latch feels off, try reclining slightly and supporting their shoulders so they can tilt their head back for a deeper latch.
What If It’s Not Going Smoothly?
First, don’t panic—this is a learning process for both of you. If baby is frustrated or struggling to latch:
🔹 Keep holding them skin-to-skin and try again later.
🔹 Express a few drops of colostrum onto your nipple to help them get interested.
🔹 Reach out for lactation support—sometimes a small tweak makes a big difference.
Want Breastfeeding Support? We've Got You!
Every mama and baby have a unique feeding journey. If you need help, Looma Birth offers in-home and virtual lactation support to guide you through those early days with confidence.
What was your baby’s first latch like?
Share in the comments—we’d love to hear your experience! 🤍
