Do babies avoid breastfeeding when teething?

Understanding the Impact of Teething on Breastfeeding
Teething is a significant developmental milestone for infants, often accompanied by discomfort and irritability. As babies begin to cut their first teeth, many parents wonder how this process affects breastfeeding. The relationship between teething and breastfeeding can vary widely among infants, leading to different experiences for mothers and their little ones.
The Dual Nature of Teething and Breastfeeding
For some babies, teething can actually increase their desire to breastfeed. The act of nursing can provide comfort and relief from the pain associated with sore gums. Many parents report that their teething infants may want to nurse more frequently, almost reverting to the constant feeding patterns seen in newborns. This behavior is often a natural response to soothe their discomfort.
Conversely, other babies may refuse to breastfeed altogether during this period. The discomfort from swollen and sore gums can make the act of sucking painful, leading some infants to shy away from nursing. This refusal can be particularly distressing for mothers who are committed to breastfeeding. The variability in responses is significant; while some babies find solace in breastfeeding, others may find it uncomfortable and choose to avoid it.
Expert Recommendations
Despite the challenges that teething can present, experts generally agree that breastfeeding should continue during this time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first year of life, alongside the introduction of solid foods after six months. This guidance underscores the importance of maintaining breastfeeding as a source of nutrition and comfort, even when teething complicates the process.
Strategies for Managing Breastfeeding During Teething
For mothers navigating the teething phase, there are several strategies that can help ease the experience. Offering breastfeeds more frequently can provide comfort to a fussy baby, while also allowing mothers to monitor their own comfort levels. It’s important to remember that while breastfeeding can be soothing for the baby, it may also lead to discomfort for the mother, especially if the baby is nursing more often.
Additionally, parents can explore other soothing methods for their teething infants, such as teething rings or cold washcloths, which can help alleviate gum pain. These alternatives can sometimes reduce the frequency of breastfeeding sessions, allowing both mother and baby to find a comfortable balance during this challenging time.
Conclusion
In summary, teething can lead to a mixed bag of responses regarding breastfeeding. While some babies may seek out the breast for comfort, others might refuse it due to discomfort. Understanding these dynamics can help parents navigate this phase with greater ease. Ultimately, maintaining open communication with healthcare providers and being attuned to the baby’s needs can support a positive breastfeeding experience, even amidst the challenges of teething.

Can teething cause less feeding?

According to the American Dental Association, babies begin teething when they’re somewhere between 6 and 12 months of age. One of the most common symptoms of teething is a loss of appetite. Your baby doesn’t want to eat because of the discomfort and pain of teething.

Does breastfeeding feel different when teething?

Signs of teething
Changes in the way a baby latches on to the breast: feeding your baby may start to be uncomfortable, or she may change the position of her mouth or head, or her latch may just feel a bit different.

What does teething poop look like?

If any teething poop occurs it might be slightly looser than usual, but it shouldn’t be watery or overly runny, which would indicate diarrhea. The color may vary, but it typically stays within the normal range of yellow, green, or brown.

Can teething make a baby refuse breastfeeding?

Teething can also cause breastfeeding refusal from your baby due to the oral discomfort experienced.

Do babies go on nursing strikes when teething?

Common causes of a breastfeeding strike include: Pain or discomfort. Teething, thrush or a cold sore can cause mouth pain during breastfeeding. An ear infection can cause pain during sucking or lying on one side.

Did you stop breastfeeding when baby got teeth?

You Don’t Have to Wean When Your Baby Gets Teeth
The answer is not if you don’t want to. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for the first year of a baby’s life; the World Health Organization encourages moms to go for two.

Do babies go off feeds when teething?

It’s very, very normal for babies to go off their food when they’re teething – it’s to be expected when their mouths are sore! It can be really tough when you’re just starting out with weaning, as around 6 months is a common time for teeth to begin to appear.

Is it normal for babies to refuse milk when teething?

3. Don’t Be Alarmed If They Are Not Eating Much. It is completely normal for teething to affect your baby’s eating habits. Their little mouths are hurting and they may not feel like eating.

Is it normal for babies to drink less milk when teething?

Don’t Be Alarmed If They Are Not Eating Much
It is completely normal for teething to affect your baby’s eating habits. Their little mouths are hurting and they may not feel like eating. They may lose weight and put it back on once the phase is over. If you are worried, check in with your pediatrician.

Why is my baby suddenly rejecting my breasts?

Sudden refusal or nursing strike
There are several reasons why your baby may suddenly start to refuse your breast: they are unwell (tummy ache, earache, oral thrush etc.) too little milk. too much milk, your baby may be struggling with the flow of milk.