Newborn very wriggly when breastfeeding - tips on how to help him latch with minimum battles

[HeftyMutha]

My 5-day old DS is a real wriggler. He struggles when brought to the breast and pushes it away even while gaping to get a latch. He seems to undermine his own efforts to get latched on, then get very frustrated and cry.

Has anyone else had a similar breastfeeding problem? What would you recommend to keep him calm and help him not to sabotage his own latching-on?

It just takes practice for both of you. He's wriggling probably cos he's hungry and can smell the milk but can't get to it. You'll probably need to get hold of your breast, squeeze (gently!) so you have a pointy nipple and literally put it in his mouth and hold it there. He might still thrash his head from side to side but he will get it. You might also want to try holding his under your arm like a rugby ball and doing the aforementioned holding it in his mouth routine. And all the while, try to stay calm (this has brought back memories of being drenched is sweat with the sheer effort of it all!)

I was shown a type of swaddle with ds1 to keep his arms out of the way, but not bring them forwards which would affect his positioning. It worked a treat. I'll do my best to describe it!

Fold a sheet into a triangle.

Place baby with his neck half way along the long side, feet pointing to the right angle of the triangle.

Bring one side of fabric over his arm, then tuck it in between his body and arm. Push it a little way under his back to keep it secure

Repeat on the other side.

It keeps their arms still but in a neutral position so not to interfere with he rest of the positioning.

HTH

You could try swaddling him to feed him. It sounds unkind, but newborns are reassured by being swaddled. If it works for you, then you could gradually loosen the feeding-swaddle over a period of days or weeks, and see how he does.

Skin-to-skin feeding is also good, especially if you can be in a curled-around position, leaning against a pile of pillows in bead, perhaps. You and baby undressed down to the minimum, cosily under the quilt, and not necessarily trying actively to feed, just being comfy and intimate together, giving him the opportunity to work it out for himself. He's new to this, and so are you (even if he's not your first - I found I had to relearn bfing with each of my 3).

This is also just lovely and relaxing for both of you, and a good way to spend a few hours getting to know each other. Do it often - even if you don't 'need' to .

Dont worry about overheating - he won't. Your closeness will prevent this happening, as, somehow, the skin-to-skin closeness helps the baby regulate his body temperature.

BTW Congratulations

My HV told me to wedge my DD's 'bottom' arm under my arm by her head, to help her stay in position. Seemed to work, til she automatically put her arm around me before trying to latch on.

Thanks, guys. Have tried the swaddling and it helps a bit. Like you said, we're both getting more practised at it so it is getting easier.