What is the preferred method of latching during breastfeeding?

The preferred method of latching during breastfeeding is baby-led latching. This approach allows the baby to initiate the latch on their own, which can lead to a more instinctive and effective breastfeeding experience. When a baby is placed skin-to-skin with the mother after birth, they often exhibit natural reflexes to find the breast, such as rooting and bobbing their head. This method encourages the baby to self-attach to the breast, often leading to a better latch and reducing the likelihood of nipple pain or damage for the mother.

Baby-led latching respects the baby's innate abilities and gives them the chance to dictate the pace of breastfeeding, which can enhance bonding between mother and baby. It also tends to align well with the principles of the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative, which emphasizes supportive practices that promote breastfeeding success and maternal-infant attachment.

In contrast, mother-led latching, while common, involves the mother guiding the baby into position. Although this can be effective in certain situations, it may not always promote the most natural latching experience. Assisted latching suggests additional support in the process, which might be necessary for mothers facing challenges but does not emphasize the baby’s autonomy as highly. Simultaneous latching typically refers to feeding twins at the same