Lipstick Nipple Latch: What it is and How to Fix it

A common side effect of an improper latch is what’s referred to as lipstick nipple. This is a condition where the nipple temporarily changes form during nursing because of misplaced pressure. The nipple will appear slanted or tapered like the tip of a newly opened lipstick tube.

What is a lipstick nipple and what are the causes?

What is a lipstick nipple? A lipstick nipple is a condition where the nipple temporarily changes form during nursing because of misplaced pressure. This is usually caused by an infant’s mouth not being wide enough or their tongue curling back too far, which can be resolved by repositioning the baby or modifying breastfeeding technique.

What are the causes of a lipstick nipple? There are several factors that can contribute to a lipstick nipple, including an improper latch, an infant’s mouth not being wide enough, or their tongue curling back too far.

12 ways to fix a lipstick nipple latch

If you’re experiencing a lipstick nipple latch, don’t worry – there are 12 ways to fix it!

These fixes can range from simple tweaks to your breastfeeding technique, to positioning the baby in a different way, to even using breast shields.

No matter what the cause of your lipstick nipple latch may be, we’ve got you covered.

Unlatch and try again

One easy way to resolve an improper latch is by unlatching and trying again. This will give your baby a chance to reposition themselves and get a better latch.

Make sure baby’s mouth opens wide

When breastfeeding, make sure your baby’s mouth is open wide so the nipple can go all the way in. When their mouth isn’t open wide, it can cause the nipple to become slanted or tapered like the tip of a lipstick tube.

Compress your breast by making a U shape

When breastfeeding, one way to help resolve an improper latch is to compress your breast by making a U shape. This will help to ensure that your baby has a deep latch.

Aim your nipple toward the roof of your baby’s mouth

When breastfeeding, try to aim your nipple toward the roof of your baby’s mouth. This will help them latch on correctly and avoid getting a lipstick nipple.

Start by brushing your nipple on your baby’s nose so that your baby opens their mouth wide and aim for the roof of their mouth.

Check your baby’s lips

When breastfeeding, your baby’s lips should be flared out. Make sure to check the lower lip to make sure it’s rolled out and not curled in. If it’s not, you can use your finger to pull it down so that they can get a good latch.

Make sure your baby’s chin is touching your breast when feeding

When you are breastfeeding, the baby’s chin should be touching your breast. If the chin isn’t touching the breast, your baby isn’t close enough to you and you can’t get a deep latch. This can be a major cause of having lipstick nipple.

Check baby’s body position

When breastfeeding, you should also check the baby’s head and body position. If they’re not in a good position, it can cause the nipple to become slanted or tapered like the tip of a lipstick tube.

Your baby’s head, shoulders, back, and neck should all be straight and in line. They shouldn’t have to turn their neck to breastfeed.

Try out a new feeding position

If you’re having trouble with your lipstick nipple latch, you may want to try out a new feeding position. There are several different positions that you can try, depending on what’s causing the problem.

If your baby’s mouth isn’t open wide enough, try breastfeeding them in the cradle hold. This will help them open their mouth wider and get a good latch.

Check your baby’s tongue and if it is curling back too far. If it is try breastfeeding them in a laid-back position. This will help keep their tongue in place and prevent them from getting a lipstick nipple.

If you’re having trouble getting a deep latch, try breastfeeding your baby in the side-lying position. This will help them stay close to you and get a deep latch.

Some moms have a problem with seeing if they have larger breasts. If you are having this problem then try the football hold. This will help them move their head back, give you a better view, and get a deeper latch.

Try using a nursing pillow

If you’re having trouble getting a proper latch, you may want to try using a nursing pillow. A nursing pillow can help you get into the right position and ensure that your baby has a good latch.

Nursing pillows are great at giving your support and helping you get a proper latch.

Have your doctor check if your baby is tongue-tied

Lots of babies have a lip and/or tongue tie. It doesn’t always affect the latch but it can prevent them from bringing their tongue far enough forward and can be a cause of having lipstick nipple.

My first son had a lip and tongue tie and we had no problems breastfeeding but if you are concerned, have your doctor check and see if your baby has one.

In the meantime, try breastfeeding in the laidback position to help bring their tongue and mouth forward to get a deep latch.

Try a nipple shield

If you’re having trouble with getting lipstick nipple latch, you may want to try using a nipple shield. A nipple shield can help give your breast tissue a break and help you get into the right position and ensure that your baby has a good latch.

See a lactation consultant

If you’re struggling to breastfeed or having trouble with your baby’s latch, you may want to see a lactation consultant. They can help you troubleshoot any problems and give you tips on how to improve your breastfeeding technique.

Lactation consultants are experts in breastfeeding and can help you get into the right position, help you troubleshoot any problems, and give you tips on how to improve your breastfeeding technique.

How do you know if their latch is problematic?

It can be difficult to tell if their latch is problematic. However, there are a few signs that may indicate that you need to seek help.

One sign is that your baby is fussy and isn’t satisfied after breastfeeding. If they’re constantly crying and not gaining weight, then there may be a problem with their latch.

Another sign is that your nipples are sore, cracked, bleeding, or have a lipstick shaped nipple after feeding. This may be a sign that your baby isn’t latching on properly and isn’t getting enough milk.

If you’re having any of these problems, it’s best to seek help from a lactation consultant. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and give you tips on how to get a proper latch.

What are some other common breastfeeding problems and how can they be resolved?

Breastfeeding is a natural process but it can be difficult for some moms.

There are a few common breastfeeding problems that can be resolved with the help of a lactation consultant.

Improper latch

One common problem is improper latch, which can be resolved by repositioning the baby or modifying breastfeeding technique.

Engorgement

Another common problem is engorgement, which can be resolved by using a nursing pillow or nipple shield.

Mastitis

A third common problem is mastitis, which can be resolved with antibiotics or sunflower lecithin if it’s caught early enough.

Nipples that are cracked and bleeding

Nipples that are cracked and bleeding can be a sign that your baby isn’t latching on properly. This can be resolved by trying the 12 steps above or seeking help from a lactation consultant. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and give you tips on how to get a proper latch.

Nipple changes color

Nipples can change color during breastfeeding for a number of reasons. One reason is if you’re baby doesn’t have a deep latch and is pinching your nipple by having a shallow latch.

Another reason is if you have a bacterial infection, such as mastitis. The nipples will change color if there is an infection.

You could also have Raynaud’s which is when you have a decreased blood flow to your extremities. This will cause your nipples to become white after breastfeeding or pumping. If you are having this issue, it can be painful or it doesn’t affect others.

If you’re concerned that your nipples are changing color, it’s best to seek help from a lactation consultant. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and give you tips on how to get a good latch.

Milk blisters

Milk blisters are caused by a blocked milk duct and can be painful.

They can be resolved by applying heat to the area, massaging the breast, and expressing milk.

If the blister doesn’t go away after a few days, you may need to see a lactation consultant or a healthcare provider.

Thrush

Thrush is a yeast infection that can affect both mothers and babies.

It can be resolved with antibiotics if it’s caught early enough.

If you’re breastfeeding and have thrush, it’s important to treat it both you and your baby.

You can treat thrush with over-the-counter medications or by taking antibiotics prescribed by your doctor.

If your baby has thrush, you can treat it with oral Nystatin or Gentian Violet.

If you’re having any of these problems, it’s best to seek help from a lactation consultant. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and give you tips on how to resolve it.

Should I stop breastfeeding my baby?

Some moms have problems breastfeeding and wonder if they should stop. There are a few common problems that can be resolved with the help of a lactation consultant.

If you’re having any of these problems, find a support group in your area. They can help you troubleshoot the problem and give you tips on how to get a good latch.

It can feel like a lot when you are having breastfeeding problems but typically these problems can easily be fixed with just getting the latched fixed and extended breastfeeding has a lifetime of health benefits for both the mother and the baby.

How can you make sure your breastfeeding experience is a positive one for both you and your baby?

If you’re having trouble breastfeeding, don’t worry. There are ways to fix the problem. You can get help from a lactation consultant or join a support group with other breastfeeding mothers.

Educating yourself on what to expect and how to prepare can always set your up for success in your breastfeeding journey.

Take the pressure off of yourself and enjoy the time with your baby. Enjoy those baby snuggles and give yourself some grace. You are both learning this new skill and it can take some time.

Breastfeeding has a lot of benefits for both you and your baby, so keep going!

Is it possible to have lipstick nipples with a good latch?

Yes, it is possible to have lipstick nipples with a good latch. If you are getting lipstick nipples but you are not in any discomfort and there is plenty of breast milk being transferred to your baby, then there might not be a problem.

Occasionally, at the end of a feeding, baby might begin to fall asleep and slide back onto the nipple from their properly latched position. Just at the tail end of their feed, this increased pressure can deform your nipple into the lipstick form.

If this happens, there’s nothing to be concerned about. Your baby doesn’t have a lipstick nipple latch; they’re simply just falling asleep when they are breastfeeding! If you are having problems with your baby falling asleep while they are nursing, read these tips on keeping your baby awake and alert to get a full feeding in.

When there is pain

If you’re having pain or discomfort during breastfeeding, it’s likely that you need to fix your latch.

A good latch is key to having a positive breastfeeding experience. With a good latch, you and your baby will be more comfortable and you’ll be less likely to experience problems like milk blisters, thrush, or clogged ducts.

Final thoughts

The lipstick nipple latch is a problem that can be easily fixed with the help of these 12 tips. The best way to fix it? Repositioning and modifying breastfeeding position. If you are having problems, join a support group with other moms. A good latch will make both mommy and her little one comfortable while feeding. There are many benefits associated with nursing so don’t give up!