Which statement indicates an improper latch?

• A. Cheeks dimple when suckling.
• B. The infant swallows rhythmically.
• C. The nipple is pinched during feeding.
• D. Chin is at least 1 cm away from the underside of the breast.

Answer: (D)

A proper latch means the infant takes a wide mouthful of the areola with the chin tucked into the breast, the lips flanged outward, and the seal maintained so sucking is efficient. When the chin rests at least 1 cm away from the underside of the breast, that seal is broken and the latch is shallow. Without the chin pressed to the breast, the tongue can’t optimize milk extraction, the infant may slip off more easily, and this can lead to nipple discomfort for the mother and inadequate milk transfer for the baby.

The other cues point toward a good latch: cheek dimples during suckling show the cheeks are drawing in properly to help form a seal, and rhythmic swallowing indicates milk is being transferred effectively. A nipple pinch during feeding can signal misalignment, but the clear physical marker of an improper latch in this set is the chin distance from the breast.