What action can a mother take to stimulate the rooting reflex while breastfeeding?

The rooting reflex is a natural instinct exhibited by infants that helps them find the breast for feeding. When a baby's cheek is touched, this reflex is stimulated, causing the baby to turn their head towards the side that was touched and open their mouth in search of a nipple. By gently stroking or touching the baby's cheek, the mother can effectively encourage this reflex, making it easier for the infant to latch on and begin breastfeeding successfully.

Other actions do not effectively stimulate this reflex. For example, covering the baby's mouth with the breast may not engage the rooting reflex effectively, as the baby relies on tactile stimulation rather than direct obstruction. Playing soft music does not have a direct correlation with the rooting instinct and is unlikely to invoke the necessary physical response in the baby. Waiting for the baby to cry may not be ideal—it’s much better to engage the rooting reflex through gentle touch instead of allowing the baby to become upset before initiating feeding.