3 Sneaky Things That Cause a Shallow Latch
Struggling with breastfeeding latch problems—especially a shallow latch? You’re not alone. A shallow latch is one of the most common challenges I see, and it can make breastfeeding painful, frustrating, and exhausting.
With so much conflicting advice out there, it’s easy to second-guess yourself and feel like nothing is working. But here’s the thing: there’s no one perfect way to latch a baby because every parent and baby is different. What works for you depends on your body and your baby.
The good news? Finding a latch that works for your baby—and feels good for your body—is possible. And it’s often simpler than it seems. Let’s look at three sneaky causes of shallow latch problems and how to fix them for a deeper, more comfortable latch.
Cause #1: Holding Your Baby Too High
One common issue is positioning your baby too high, with their mouth too close to your nipple before they’ve had a chance to open wide. This can lead to your baby sucking, biting, or even chewing your nipple into their mouth. Not only is that painful, but it also makes it harder for them to get a deep latch.
Your baby needs room to move their head and look up to find your nipple. This upward motion helps them open wide, plant their chin, and latch deeply.
Try this quick experiment:
Tuck your chin down to your chest and try to open your mouth wide, stick out your tongue, and swallow. It’s tough, isn’t it?
Now lift your head slightly, like you’re sipping a glass of water, and try again. Notice the difference?
That open neck position makes it much easier, and the same is true for your baby.
What to Do Instead:
Position your baby so their body is lower or further back, with your nipple closer to their nose. This encourages them to look up, plant their chin, and open wide—all essential for a deeper, more comfortable latch.
If you want to see this positioning change in action, watch Shallow Latch? Fix These Three Things First.
Cause #2: Putting Your Hand Behind Your Baby’s Head
It’s natural to want to support your baby’s head, especially when they’re small and floppy. But placing your hand directly behind their head and guiding them forward can accidentally close their neck. This makes it harder for them to open wide and latch comfortably.
What to Do Instead:
Support your baby at the base of their neck or behind their shoulders instead. If you need to bring them closer, focus on moving them from their upper back. This allows their head to remain free so they can open their neck, plant their chin, and latch deeply.
Once they’re latched, adjust your arms to support both their head and body so everyone stays comfortable.
Cause #3: Bringing Your Body to Your Baby’s Mouth
If you’ve been taught to stroke your nipple on your baby’s lips and quickly move it into their mouth as soon as they open, you’re not alone. This method often treats latching like hitting a bullseye—but it can make things harder.
Your baby isn’t a baby bird—they’re a mammal, and mammals are active partners in the feeding process. They need to move their head and engage their reflexes to latch effectively. If you’re moving your body at the same time, it’s like dancing with a partner who keeps making unexpected moves—it throws off the rhythm.
What to Do Instead:
Experiment with a hold like the cross-cradle position—it’s great for helping newborns latch effectively. Resist the urge to move your nipple toward their mouth unless they’re upset or crying.
If your baby does need help in the moment, that’s okay. Assist them as needed, but when everyone is calm, give them another opportunity to use their reflexes and practice latching.
Final Thoughts
Small adjustments can make a big difference in your feeding experience.
If you want to see all three positioning changes demonstrated, watch Shallow Latch? Fix These Three Things First.
For the complete step-by-step process for positioning your baby, helping them open wide, and getting a deeper latch, read How to Get a Deep Latch While Breastfeeding.
Want More Support?
If this blog was helpful, here are a few related resources you might like.
âžś A Deep vs. Shallow Latch: What it Means & When it Matters
đź”’ Shallow Latch? Fix These Three Things First
đź”’ Go Deeper: How to Get a Good Latch
đź”’ Expanded Access includes step-by-step videos and resources that go beyond the blog to help you understand and work through common feeding challenges.
Frequently Asked Shallow Latch Questions
