Confident breastfeeding: How to tell if a baby has a good latch?

How to recognise a good latch: essentials for practice

In this short video, Vicki Blackman, Registered Midwife and Breastfeeding Educator, explains how to tell if a baby has a good latch and why it matters. A good latch is essential for effective milk transfer. It ensures the baby gets the milk they need and helps prevent problems for the mother.

What you will learn

This resource helps you guide mothers with confidence on:

• The key signs of a good latch: a wide open mouth, more areola visible above the upper lip, and lips flanged outward
• Why the baby's nose and chin touching the breast is safe and important
• How to spot a shallow latch and its effect on milk transfer
• Positioning basics: ear, shoulder and hip aligned, close to the mother's body
• How a poor latch can lead to cracked nipples, blocked ducts and mastitis
• Why pain during breastfeeding is a signal to check latch and position

Watch and support mothers with confidence

Watch the full video to strengthen your breastfeeding guidance and help mothers achieve a comfortable, effective latch from the very first feeds. It is part of the Confident breastfeeding series on Danone Nutricia Campus. Explore the full resource for more practical insights, and discover further courses on early life nutrition.