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How do you know if breast milk is not agreeing with baby?

Understanding Breast Milk Compatibility with Your Baby
Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial way to nourish infants, but sometimes, mothers may notice signs that their breast milk is not agreeing with their baby. Recognizing these signs is crucial for ensuring the health and comfort of both mother and child.
Signs That Breast Milk May Not Be Agreeing with Your Baby
One of the primary indicators that breast milk might not be suitable for your baby is changes in feeding behavior. If your baby suddenly refuses to breastfeed or seems fussy during feeding sessions, it could be a sign that something is off. Babies typically nurse frequently, around 8 to 12 times in a 24-hour period, especially in the early days as they adjust to the transition from colostrum to mature milk. If your baby is nursing less often or appears disinterested, it may warrant further investigation.
Another critical sign to watch for is digestive discomfort. If your baby experiences excessive gas, bloating, or seems to be in pain after feeding, it could indicate that the breast milk is not settling well in their stomach. This discomfort may manifest as crying or fussiness, particularly after feedings. Additionally, if you notice changes in your baby’s stool—such as diarrhea or unusual colors—it may suggest that they are reacting negatively to something in the breast milk.
Potential Causes of Discomfort
Several factors can contribute to breast milk not agreeing with a baby. One common issue is maternal diet. What a breastfeeding mother consumes can affect the composition of her milk. For instance, certain foods, such as dairy, soy, or nuts, may lead to allergic reactions in sensitive infants. If you suspect that your diet might be causing issues, consider keeping a food diary to track what you eat and any corresponding changes in your baby’s behavior.
Moreover, milk storage and handling can also play a role. If expressed milk is not stored properly, it can spoil or become contaminated, leading to gastrointestinal issues for the baby. Ensuring that breast milk is collected, stored, and thawed safely is essential for maintaining its quality.
Monitoring and Next Steps
If you observe any of these signs, it is advisable to consult with a pediatrician or a lactation consultant. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation and help determine if the breast milk is indeed the issue or if other factors are at play. In some cases, they may recommend dietary adjustments for the mother or suggest alternative feeding methods, such as using expressed milk or formula, to see if the baby’s symptoms improve.
In conclusion, being attentive to your baby’s feeding patterns and digestive health is key to ensuring that breast milk is a suitable source of nutrition. By recognizing the signs that indicate potential incompatibility and seeking professional advice, mothers can navigate the challenges of breastfeeding more effectively.

How do I know if my breast milk is bothering my baby?

Fussy feeding

  • Comes off the breast or bottle frequently
  • Moves their head side to side when feeding
  • Has trouble latching onto the breast or bottle
  • Makes clicking noises when feeding
  • Appears uncomfortable, even after feeding
  • Brings up a lot of milk
  • Cries during or after feeding
  • Struggles with lots of wind

How to tell if breast milk isn’t agreeing with baby?

If your baby shows negative symptoms after drinking breast milk. Consider how your baby responds to breast milk after drinking it. If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day.

How do I know if my baby doesn’t agree with milk?

Symptoms include diarrhoea, abdominal pain, wind and bloating. Lactose-free formula is available in pharmacies and shops, but if you think your baby may be lactose intolerant, it’s important to speak to a midwife, health visitor or GP.

Can breast milk not agree with baby?

Babies love the flavors of foods that come through in your milk. Sometimes, though, a baby may be sensitive, not allergic, to something you eat, such as dairy products like milk and cheese. Soy, eggs, wheat, corn, beef and nuts are also common causes of food sensitivity.

What can happen if baby drinks bad breast milk?

If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

How do I know if my breastmilk is making my baby fussy?

You’ll know if your breast milk is upsetting baby if they are unusually gassy or fussy after eating. As you and your baby get acclimated to breastfeeding, you’ll learn what not to eat while breastfeeding if your baby reacts to a certain food or drink.

What does baby poop look like with a milk allergy?

Green, bloody, or mucus-tinged stool—along with some other issues—could indicate a milk allergy. If you suspect your baby has a cow’s milk protein allergy, keep an eye out for these common issues that may occur shortly after feeding: wheezing, coughing, swelling, a rash, gas, crying, and unusual poops.

How to tell if a breastfed baby has intolerance?

These include breaking out in hives or an eczema-like rash, having mucusy or bloody diarrhea, coughing and/or vomiting. So if your baby is crying and spitting up a bit after a meal, but nothing else, there’s probably no allergy or intolerance.

How do I know if milk is hurting my baby?

If your baby has diarrhea or cries and fusses soon after consuming lactose, or if they are not putting on weight, talk to your doctor.

How do I know if my breast milk is bad for my baby?

That doesn’t always mean it’s soured or spoiled, but you should talk to your doctor or lactation specialist about what to do if your breast milk tastes or smells bad or your baby doesn’t like it. You may need to avoid certain foods, change how you pump or store your milk, or make other lifestyle changes.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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