What is the initial step to ensure a successful baby-led latching?

A calm baby is indeed crucial for successful baby-led latching. When a baby is calm, they are more likely to exhibit natural feeding cues, such as rooting, moving their head toward the breast, and trying to latch. This relaxed state allows the baby to engage more effectively with the breast, helping them to find the nipple and latch on without frustration. A calm environment supports this process, enabling both the mother and the baby to connect through the feeding experience.

Ensuring that the baby is calm before attempting to feed creates a positive atmosphere that can contribute to a smoother latching process. Meanwhile, while it's important that the baby is hungry, and a quiet room can assist in the overall feeding experience, these factors may not be as immediately impactful on the latching process itself when compared to calmness. Using a breast pump prior to feeding does not enhance baby-led latching and can actually interfere by altering the natural breastfeeding initiation process. Thus, starting with a calm baby lays the groundwork for effective latching.