Blog

Beyond Latching: Understanding Your Baby's Shallow Feeding Position

Many parents face the frustration of their baby initially latching well, only to slide shallow shortly after. But worry not! This might not be a latching issue at all. Let's explore what "shallow feeding" could mean and how to support your little one for a smooth and comfortable experience.

Latching as a Teamwork Effort

Instead of "doing" the latch for your baby, think of it as a collaborative effort. Your role is to guide them into the best position possible, while they take the lead on actually latching. Their actions during this process offer valuable clues about what's happening inside their mouth, especially how they're using their muscles for feeding.

A Deeper Look: Why the Back Tongue Matters

Imagine your baby's latch as a window into their oral activity. Ideally, they'll engage a balanced group of muscles, including the back of their tongue. This allows for the perfect "lift and drop" motion during feeding, ensuring efficient milk transfer. Just like your body naturally uses all available muscles for ease, your baby will too!

Understanding Shallow Feeding

Several reasons might explain why your baby slides shallow. However, it  often indicates difficulty or a reluctance to use the back tongue muscles. There are three main scenarios:

1. Briefly Shallow, then Deeper:

If your baby slides shallow initially during a strong letdown but regains a deeper latch later, it could be a reaction to the fast flow. Relax! Simply try reclining slightly while feeding to help slow things down.

2. Inconsistent Latching:

Sometimes shallow, sometimes deep? This suggests a situational issue. Gas discomfort or other temporary concerns might affect their ability to use the back tongue effectively. Observe your baby's behavior during feeds to identify any recurring patterns. Addressing those could be the key to a more consistent latch.

3. Persistent Shallow Feeding:

If your baby always slides shallow, regardless of latching technique, it could be a sign of limited back tongue function. This might indicate oral challenges, even if weight gain is satisfactory and latching isn't painful.

Seeking Support for a Happy Feeding Journey

Remember, you're not alone! If your baby consistently slides shallow, consider consulting a feeding professional. They can assess your baby's oral reflexes and offer personalized guidance.

By understanding the "why" behind shallow feeding, you can address the root cause and support a happy and comfortable feeding journey for both of you.