What causes baby to choke while breastfeeding?

Understanding Choking in Breastfeeding Infants
Choking during breastfeeding can be a distressing experience for both the baby and the breastfeeding parent. While it may sound alarming, it is not uncommon for infants to gag or choke while nursing. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors related to the baby’s developmental stage and the breastfeeding process itself.
Immature Swallowing Skills
One of the primary reasons infants choke while breastfeeding is their immature swallowing skills. Newborns are still developing the coordination needed to suck, swallow, and breathe simultaneously. As they learn these skills, they may occasionally gag or choke, especially if they are overwhelmed by the flow of milk. This is a natural part of their development, and while it can cause harmless coughing, it is essential for parents to be aware of how to respond.
Overactive Letdown Reflex
Another significant factor contributing to choking is the overactive letdown reflex. This occurs when a mother’s milk flows too quickly for the baby to handle. When the milk ejection is forceful, the baby may struggle to keep up, leading to gagging or choking as they attempt to swallow the milk . Signs of this issue can include the baby pulling off the breast, gasping, or showing signs of distress at the start of a feeding session.
Positioning During Feeding
The position in which a baby is fed can also play a crucial role in preventing choking. Feeding a baby while lying down can increase the risk of choking, as it may not allow gravity to assist in the swallowing process. It is generally recommended to hold the baby in an upright position during breastfeeding to facilitate better control over the milk flow and swallowing.
Hyper-Gag Reflex
Infants are born with a hyper-gag reflex, which is a protective mechanism designed to prevent choking. This reflex can be triggered during breastfeeding, especially if the baby is not ready for the amount of milk being delivered. While this reflex is beneficial, it can lead to moments of panic for both the baby and the parent when it results in choking.
Conclusion
While choking during breastfeeding can be alarming, understanding the underlying causes can help parents manage the situation more effectively. By being mindful of the baby’s developmental stage, the flow of milk, and the feeding position, parents can create a safer breastfeeding experience. If choking episodes persist or cause significant concern, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out any underlying issues.

Is it common for babies to choke on milk?

Babies commonly choke on liquid (mucus or curdled milk), so keeping their head lower than their bottom helps the liquid to drain out – gravity will help.

Why does it sound like my baby can t breathe while breastfeeding?

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.

How do I stop my baby from choking while breastfeeding?

Sometimes the force of your milk (especially when it “lets down”) is so strong that it can cause your baby to gag and pull away from the breast. If this happens during feeding: Try nursing your baby in a more upright position (head above the breast). This may ease the force of the milk.

Why is my baby gulping and gasping while breastfeeding?

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.

How to prevent baby choking on milk while sleeping?

Keeping your baby upright for about 30 minutes after feeding can help reduce reflux symptoms and make them less prone to spit up and gag during sleep.

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.

Why is my baby choking and gasping for air while feeding?

The most common reason a baby chokes during breastfeeding is that milk is coming out faster than your baby can swallow. Usually, this happens when mom has an oversupply of milk.

How to prevent aspiration while breastfeeding?

Elevation of the head of the bed approximately 30° may help, although young infants may slide down the bed during the night. Dietary modifications include thickening feeds for infants; breastfeeding; decreasing volume of feeds (10-20 mL/kg per feeding); and feeding small, frequent meals.

What to do if baby stops breathing while feeding?

Give five rescue breaths: tilt their head back, seal your mouth over their mouth and nose. Blow five times into the baby. By blowing into their mouth you are topping up the oxygen levels in their blood. The oxygen you give them helps to keep their organs alive.

How to stop baby gulping while breastfeeding?

Do

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)