How to Release Your Baby's Suction During Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding mothers have all experienced that painful moment when their babies pulled off their breasts without breaking suction. Here are ways that you can break your baby's suction during breastfeeding and save yourself from that excruciating pain.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Always wash your hands thoroughly before breastfeeding your baby.

2. To release the suction from your baby's mouth while breastfeeding, gently insert your well-washed pinky finger into the corner of your baby's mouth. As soon as the suction releases, remove your nipple.

3. A second method for releasing suction: near your baby's mouth, gently press on your baby's cheek with your index finger and pull back slowly toward his/her ear. Your nipple will easily come out once the suction is broken.

4. A third method for releasing suction: with one finger, press on your breast near your nipple. This method works best towards the end of a breastfeeding session or if your baby is falling asleep.

Tips & Warnings

• Wash your hands before handling your breasts for nursing, pumping, or treating with creams or medicines.
• Pulling your baby off of the breast without breaking suction first can cause damage to your nipple.

[Fuller1972]

on 4/6/2009 Had to do this with my own DS(Darling Son) Unfortunately, My DD(darling daughters) were all adopted, 4 as older children so I never had the opportunity. The message writer is not working, I could not reply. Great Article**5**

[msknowalot]

on 4/5/2009 well written, this will help alot of new mommies-5

[athome]

on 3/23/2009 Great info, sounds less painful than just pulling away. 5