What can a mother do to help the baby latch onto the nipple effectively?

Holding the breast to present it to the infant is an effective way to assist with latching. This technique, often referred to as “breast shaping” or “breast support,” allows the mother to help guide the nipple towards the baby’s mouth while also ensuring that the areola is within reach. This approach encourages the baby to latch correctly by bringing them closer to the breast, allowing them to open their mouth wide and take in more of the areola along with the nipple.

This method is beneficial because it helps create a proper latch, which is crucial for effective breastfeeding. A good latch not only ensures that the baby is able to extract milk efficiently but also prevents nipple soreness for the mother. Additionally, positioning the baby correctly can facilitate a more comfortable and successful feeding experience for both the infant and the mother.

Other options would not effectively promote a good latch. For instance, pressing down on the baby's head tightly could cause discomfort and resistance, while leaving the baby to find the nipple independently might lead to frustration if the baby struggles to locate it. Forcing the baby’s mouth open is not recommended as it can create a negative feeding experience and result in a poor latch.