How does breastmilk help with teething?

The Soothing Power of Breastmilk During Teething
Teething can be a challenging time for both babies and their parents. As infants begin to cut their first teeth, they often experience discomfort, irritability, and a range of other symptoms. However, breastmilk emerges as a natural ally during this phase, providing not only nutrition but also comfort and relief.
Breastmilk as a Natural Pain Reliever
Research indicates that breastmilk can help alleviate teething pain. The act of breastfeeding itself can be soothing for a teething baby. When babies suckle, they engage their gums, which can provide a counter-pressure that helps ease the discomfort associated with emerging teeth. This natural response can be particularly beneficial when babies are feeling fussy or irritable due to teething.
Moreover, breastmilk contains various components that may contribute to its soothing effects. It is rich in antibodies and other bioactive compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. This means that not only does breastfeeding provide immediate comfort, but it may also support the baby’s overall oral health during this critical developmental stage.
Emotional Comfort and Bonding
Beyond the physical benefits, breastfeeding during teething fosters emotional comfort and bonding between mother and child. The close physical contact during nursing can help reassure a teething baby, providing a sense of security that is especially important when they are experiencing discomfort. Many mothers report that their teething babies often want to nurse more frequently, seeking the comfort of their mother’s presence and the soothing properties of breastmilk.
Navigating Challenges
While breastfeeding can be a powerful tool during teething, it is not without its challenges. Some mothers may feel apprehensive about nursing a baby with teeth, fearing bites or discomfort. However, experts suggest that with proper techniques and a little patience, breastfeeding can continue smoothly. It’s important for mothers to remain calm and attentive to their baby’s cues, adjusting their approach as needed to ensure a positive experience for both.
Conclusion
In summary, breastmilk plays a multifaceted role in helping babies navigate the teething process. It not only provides essential nutrition but also serves as a natural pain reliever and a source of emotional comfort. As teething can be a tumultuous time, the benefits of breastfeeding can significantly ease the journey for both infants and their mothers, reinforcing the bond that is so vital during early development.

Does breast milk act as pain relief?

High‐quality evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews supports the role of breastfeeding in reducing procedural pain during the neonatal period (first 28 days of life).

Does breast milk help with teething?

If your baby is suffering with teething pain, she may ask to feed more often, possibly for quite short periods each time. If you are happy to feed her as often as she wants, then it can really help both of you to get through this tricky time.

How do you use breast milk for teething?

Parens often give their baby a teething toy or cold washcloth to gnaw on to help ease the pain, but breast milk—in frozen form—can also provide relief. “Making breast milk ice cubes [or popsicles] is soothing to a teething baby, as it soothes and numbs the gums,” O’Connor says.

Can I give my 4 month old frozen breast milk for teething?

For a refreshing treat in the summer and when baby is teething, try making a breastmilk popsicle! They are easy to make…it’s just a popsicle made out of breastmilk – nothing else! Some helpful tips: Give to babies over 6 months.

Can I put breast milk on my baby’s face?

Breast milk contains lauric acid, which possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties can help reduce the inflammation and redness associated with baby acne. By gently applying breast milk to the affected area, many parents observe an improvement in their baby’s skin condition.

What is the best way to ease teething pain in babies?

What You Can Do to Ease Teething Pain. If a child’s gums are swollen and tender, gently rub or massage the gums with your finger, or give the child a firm (not liquid-filled) teether made of rubber to chew on. Make sure the teething ring is not frozen. If the object is too hard, it can hurt the child’s gums.

Does breastmilk help pink eye?

Breastmilk does not treat conjunctivitis and there is no benefit to using it on your baby’s eyes, but it is not harmful.

Can I put breastmilk in my baby’s ear?

Placing a few drops of breast milk into the affected ear several times a day, combined with the suckling motion of breastfeeding, can help ease pain and clear the infection faster. This trick has also been shown to work for blocked tear ducts.

When is baby teething most painful?

Stage 5: (25-33 months) For some children, this is the most painful stage of teething. During this time, the large molars emerge. These are the biggest teeth, and parents may find their normal soothing techniques are no longer effective. Try different methods to soothe the toddler until something helps.

How to relieve ear pain from teething?

Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed to ease pain (check the label for how much to give and how often). Don’t give ibuprofen to an infant younger than 6 months old. Applying a lukewarm cloth to the ear also can help with pain, as can raising your child’s head while they sleep.