How to stop baby gagging on breasts?

Understanding Baby Gagging During Breastfeeding
Gagging in infants, particularly during breastfeeding, can be a distressing experience for new parents. While it may seem alarming, it is essential to understand that gagging is a normal reflex in babies, often linked to their developing oral skills and gag reflex sensitivity.
The Gag Reflex Explained
The gag reflex is a protective mechanism that helps prevent choking. In infants, this reflex is located further back in the mouth, which means they can gag on various stimuli, including milk from breastfeeding. This reflex is particularly pronounced in newborns and gradually diminishes as they grow and become more adept at swallowing and managing food textures.
Common Causes of Gagging
1. Overactive Gag Reflex: Some babies have a more sensitive gag reflex, which can lead to gagging during breastfeeding. This sensitivity can be heightened if the baby is not latched correctly or if they are feeding too quickly.
2. Positioning Issues: The way a baby is positioned during breastfeeding can significantly impact their ability to swallow effectively. If a baby is lying flat or is not properly supported, they may struggle to manage the flow of milk, leading to gagging.
3. Milk Flow: A fast milk flow can overwhelm a baby, causing them to gag. This is particularly common in mothers with a strong let-down reflex, where milk flows rapidly at the start of feeding.
Tips to Reduce Gagging
To help minimize the chances of your baby gagging while breastfeeding, consider the following strategies:
– Ensure Proper Latch: A good latch is crucial. Make sure your baby is latched onto the breast correctly, which can help them manage the flow of milk better. If you’re unsure, consulting a lactation expert can provide valuable guidance.
– Adjust Feeding Position: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions. Holding your baby in a more upright position can help them swallow more effectively and reduce the likelihood of gagging.
– Control Milk Flow: If you have a strong let-down reflex, try expressing a little milk before latching your baby. This can help reduce the initial flow and make it easier for your baby to manage.
– Pacing the Feed: Allow your baby to take breaks during feeding. If they seem overwhelmed, gently remove them from the breast for a moment to give them time to recover.
When to Seek Help
While gagging is typically normal, there are instances when it may warrant concern. If your baby appears to be in distress, turns blue, or is unable to breathe, these could be signs of choking, which requires immediate medical attention. Additionally, if gagging persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, such as vomiting or refusal to feed, consulting a pediatrician is advisable.
Conclusion
Gagging during breastfeeding can be a common occurrence, often linked to the natural development of a baby’s oral skills. By understanding the causes and implementing strategies to manage feeding, parents can help create a more comfortable feeding experience for their little ones. Remember, patience and practice are key as both you and your baby navigate this learning process together.

How do I fix my baby’s aversion when breastfeeding?

Try feeding your baby in a quiet room with no distractions. Cuddle your baby. Skin-to-skin contact between you and your baby might renew your baby’s interest in breastfeeding. See if your baby will latch on while taking a warm bath together.

Why is my baby rejecting my breasts?

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.

Do babies grow out of comfort nursing?

Usually, babies will grow out of comfort nursing as they reach the toddler stage.

What do I do if my baby chokes on breast milk?

If they’re choking support their cheekbones and give five back blows between the shoulder blades to remove that liquid. One. Hopefully, that’s all that was needed to be able to clear that liquid out of their airway and get them breathing again.

How to stop baby from gagging while breastfeeding?

If your baby is pulling off and gagging or coughing during feeding, sit your baby up in a seated burp position. Gently pat your baby’s back to help your little one calm down before you continue feeding. If you’ve tried the steps above and this continues to happen, talk to your doctor or lactation consultant.

Why is my baby gagging on my boob?

It is a very complex and intricately timed process. When a baby is gagging /choking or spluttering at the breast it is generally because the smooth coordination of the suck-swallow-breathe rhythm has been disrupted and the swallow and breathe is mis-timed.

Why is baby frantic at the breast?

Sometimes, your milk lets down so fast that your baby can have trouble swallowing the amount of milk that’s being released. Because of this, your baby may act fussy at breast or choke and sputter at the breast, and he or she may be quite gassy.

How do I stop my baby from soothing on my breasts?

Wean Off the Nipple. This method involves slowly weaning your baby off of the nipple in order to stop association rather than letting them cry it out. It involves releasing your nipple when your baby is just about to fall asleep while nursing baby to sleep, and then closing your baby’s mouth.

How long does breastfeeding aversion last?

The difference between aversion and DMER
As a condition, though, DMER is prompted by your milk ejection reflex — hence the name. As such, it lasts for just a few minutes, unlike aversion, which can last for entire nursing sessions.

What is the correct position to breastfeed to avoid choking?

Supporting their neck, shoulders and back should allow them to tilt their head back and swallow easily. Always bring your baby to the breast and let them latch themselves. Avoid leaning your breast forward into your baby’s mouth, as this can lead to poor attachment. Your baby needs to get a big mouthful of breast.