Latching-on and suckling of the healthy term neonate: breastfeeding assessment

J Midwifery Womens Health. 2007 Nov-Dec;52(6):638-42. doi: 10.1016/j.jmwh.2007.08.004.

Abstract

Increasing breastfeeding duration and exclusivity is an acknowledged public health priority. Breastfeeding problems, especially with the healthy term neonate latching-on or feeding with a suboptimal latch, are common reasons for early breastfeeding termination when they result in inadequate breastfeeding, poor milk transfer, and sore nipples. This article describes clinical strategies for systematic latch-on and suckling assessment with the goal of improving the skills of clinicians who provide care for breastfeeding women.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Breast Feeding*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Midwifery / methods*
  • Mothers / education*
  • Nipples
  • Nurse's Role
  • Nurse-Patient Relations
  • Nursing Assessment / methods*
  • Postnatal Care / methods*
  • Sucking Behavior*