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Is it normal for babies to squeak while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Squeaky Sounds of Breastfeeding
For many new parents, the experience of breastfeeding is filled with unexpected sounds and sensations. One of the more curious noises that can arise during this intimate feeding process is a squeaking sound made by the baby. While it may initially cause concern, experts suggest that this phenomenon is generally normal and can be attributed to several factors.
The Nature of Breastfeeding Noises
Breastfeeding is not a silent affair. Babies often make a variety of sounds, including squeaks, grunts, and even humming. These noises can be surprising for first-time parents who may not have been exposed to the realities of nursing before. According to a recent article, many parents recall their initial reaction to these unexpected sounds, often finding them amusing or endearing.
The squeaking noise specifically can occur for a few reasons. It may be related to the baby’s latch and the way they are drawing milk from the breast. If a baby is not perfectly latched, they might create a squeaky sound as they suck and swallow. This is often a normal part of the breastfeeding process and not necessarily a cause for alarm.
When to Be Concerned
While squeaking is typically harmless, there are instances where it might indicate an issue. For example, if the squeaking is accompanied by signs of distress or if the baby seems to be struggling to feed, it could be worth consulting a pediatrician or a lactation consultant. In some cases, noisy breathing can be linked to conditions like laryngomalacia, which is common in infants but usually resolves on its own.
Parents should also be attentive to other sounds, such as clicking or popping, which might suggest that the baby is breaking the seal while nursing. This could lead to discomfort for the mother and may require adjustments to the baby’s latch.
Conclusion
In summary, it is quite normal for babies to make squeaky noises while breastfeeding. These sounds are often just a part of the learning process for both the baby and the mother. However, if parents have concerns about their baby’s feeding habits or noises, seeking advice from healthcare professionals can provide reassurance and guidance. Embracing the unique sounds of breastfeeding can enhance the bonding experience between parent and child, turning what might seem like a quirky moment into a cherished memory.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

The third crisis occurs after three months, at this stage the baby has much greater suction strength and will take faster feedings as he is able to empty the breasts with greater speed, that is to say, take more in less time, this period coincides with the development of their hearing and vision, that makes everything …

What is squeaky baby syndrome?

Laryngomalacia is a common cause of noisy breathing in infants. It happens when a baby’s larynx (or voice box) is soft and floppy. When the baby takes a breath, the part of the larynx above the vocal cords falls in and temporarily blocks the baby’s airway.

Why does my baby make a squeaking sound?

“Squeaky breathing, also known as stridor, is caused by soft or “floppy” tissues around the baby’s vocal cords,” notes Dr. Amos. “As the baby breathes in, the extra tissue around the larynx (voice box) briefly blocks the airway causing a squeak.”

Why is my baby so noisy when feeding?

Most babies who have laryngomalacia start having symptoms within a few days to weeks after birth. These symptoms may include: Noisy breathing. Difficulty feeding or gasping/choking noises while feeding.

Why does my baby breathe squeaky while feeding?

Laryngomalacia symptoms can range from mild to severe. Loud, noisy or squeaky breathing is the main thing to watch for. This often worsens over the first several months but resolves within a year or two. Most babies with laryngomalacia have no trouble breathing or feeding, even when their breathing sounds concerning.

What does RSV sound like in babies?

RSV symptoms in babies:
A long exhale sound (usually exhaling is pretty fast, in RSV it is longer than the inhale sound) Flaring of your baby’s nostrils with every breath. A persistent cough. Wheezing (a whistling sound each time your baby breathes out)

Does laryngomalacia cause SIDS?

It is suggested that laryngomalacia may be a cause for early apnea of infancy. Obstructive apnea is a well-documented cause for apnea of infancy (‘near miss’ sudden infant death syndrome) [2,7,12,19,20].

Is it normal for my baby to squeak while eating?

Laryngomalacia is caused by floppy tissue falling over the larynx (voice box) and partially blocking the airway when a child breathes in. The sound from laryngomalacia is often a high-pitched squeak that often worsens when the baby is agitated, feeding, crying, or sleeping on his or her back.

Are babies supposed to make noise while breastfeeding?

A baby who is getting a good mouthful of milk with each suck makes a small gulping noise with each swallow. This is sometimes too quiet to hear. After swallowing, your baby will breathe out with a puff of air that sounds like a “k-ah” sound.

Why does my baby squeak when I breastfeed?

What is laryngomalacia? It is a genetic condition in the area of the voice box that usually manifests with a squeaking noise, like a whistle, when the baby breastfeeds, cries, or is on their tummy.

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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