- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- babies today articles
- babies today q&a
- toddlers today articles
- toddlers today q&a
- breastfeed.com articles
- breastfeed.com q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Melissa Clark Vickers International Board Certified Lactation Consultant Moms & Babies Huntingdon, Tenn. | ||
 |
How much of the breast should my baby take in order to suck properly?
Baby needs to get a mouthful of breast, not just the nipple. By encouraging baby to open wide and get at least an inch of the areola in his mouth, he'll be compressing the breast behind those sinuses where the milk is pooling. If he just latches onto the nipple, it is like clamping down on straws little milk will flow, and it will hurt!
Related Expert Q&A
More Answers by this Expert
- Should I massage my breasts to prepare for breastfeeding? Can that cause premature labor?
- Do I need to do anything to prepare my nipples for breastfeeding?
- I'm flat-chested -- will I be able to breastfeed?
- Will it be hard to position my baby for nursing if my breasts are large?
- Can you tell me about the AAP breastfeeding guidelines?