LATCH Breastfeeding Score Calculator

Latch Audible Swallowing Select 0 None 1 A few with stimulation 2 Spontaneous and intermittent Type of Nipple Select 0 Inverted 1 Flat 2 Everted Comfort Breast Select 0 Engorged cracked bleeding 1 Filling reddened or mild pain 2 Soft and non tender Hold Positioning Select 0 Full assist 1 Minimal assist 2 No assist LATCH Breastfeeding Score Explanation and Clinical Context LATCH Breastfeeding Score is a structured tool that evaluates the effectiveness and quality of breastfeeding through five observable components which include latch audible swallowing type of nipple comfort and hold. Each component is graded from zero to two which produces a total score of zero to ten. Higher scores reflect more effective breastfeeding and better maternal infant coordination.

This scoring tool supports clinicians in identifying breastfeeding challenges early such as poor latch nipple issues or inadequate infant positioning. It guides targeted interventions that promote effective milk transfer maternal comfort and successful breastfeeding continuation. LATCH is widely used in clinical settings due to its simplicity reproducibility and direct relevance to bedside assessment.

Reference Jensen D Wallace S Kelsay P. LATCH a breastfeeding charting system and documentation tool. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs.

1994. 23. 27 to 32.