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Understanding Why Babies Cry After Breastfeeding
When a baby cries after breastfeeding, it can be a distressing experience for both the infant and the caregiver. This behavior is not uncommon, and while it may be puzzling, there are several potential reasons behind it. Understanding these reasons can help parents respond effectively and soothe their little ones.
Common Reasons for Crying
1. Digestive Discomfort: One of the most frequent causes of post-feeding crying is digestive discomfort. Babies may experience gas, colic, or even acid reflux, which can lead to fussiness after feeding. Colic, characterized by excessive crying, often peaks around six weeks and can last until the baby is three to four months old. If a baby seems to be in pain, it might be worth consulting a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.
2. Overfeeding or Underfeeding: Sometimes, a baby may cry because they are either overfed or still hungry. If a baby is feeding too quickly, they might take in more air, leading to discomfort. Conversely, if they are not getting enough milk, they may cry out of hunger. Observing feeding cues and ensuring a calm feeding environment can help mitigate these issues.
3. Need for Comfort: Babies often cry not just for physical needs but also for emotional comfort. After breastfeeding, they may seek closeness or reassurance. Holding the baby close, skin-to-skin, or gently rocking them can provide the comfort they need.
4. Environmental Factors: External factors such as noise, temperature, or even the time of day can affect a baby’s mood. A noisy environment or a room that is too hot or cold can lead to discomfort, prompting crying after feeding. Creating a soothing atmosphere can help alleviate this.
5. Teething: As babies grow, teething can begin as early as six months, causing discomfort that may lead to crying after feeding. Signs of teething include drooling, chewing on objects, and irritability. Offering a teething toy or a cold washcloth can provide relief.
Strategies to Soothe a Crying Baby
When faced with a crying baby post-breastfeeding, there are several strategies caregivers can employ:
– Burping: Ensure that the baby is burped adequately during and after feeding to release any trapped air that may cause discomfort.
– Change Positions: Sometimes, changing the baby’s position can help. Holding them upright or in a different hold may ease their discomfort.
– Swaddling: Wrapping the baby snugly in a soft blanket can provide a sense of security and comfort, helping to calm them down.
– Gentle Movement: Rocking, swaying, or taking a walk with the baby can be soothing. The rhythmic motion often helps to calm fussy infants.
– Check for Other Needs: Ensure that the baby is not too hot or cold, and check their diaper for any signs of discomfort. Sometimes, a simple change can make a big difference.
Conclusion
Crying after breastfeeding is a common occurrence that can stem from various causes, including digestive issues, emotional needs, and environmental factors. By understanding these potential triggers and employing soothing techniques, caregivers can help their babies feel more comfortable and secure. If crying persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, seeking advice from a healthcare professional is always a prudent step.
Is my breastmilk making my baby fussy?
A baby’s digestive system isn’t fully developed, so a mom’s diet might make for a fussy baby, especially if they’re sensitive to that food. You’ll know if your breast milk is upsetting baby if they are unusually gassy or fussy after eating.
What to do if baby cries after breastfeeding?
Other helpful suggestions to feed a baby fussy at breast include:
- Increase the frequency of nursing.
- Allow your baby to feed on one breast per feeding.
- Burp your baby frequently during each feeding.
- If your baby is spitting up a lot after each feeding, talk to your baby’s doctor.
Why is my baby crying and uncomfortable after feeding?
If your baby tends to cry during or after feeds, it’s worth checking whether this could be reflux. Our guide to reflux in bottle fed babies has information on the signs and symptoms. If you’re not sure what’s wrong, it’s best to speak to your health visitor, call NHS 111 or see a GP to be sure.
What to do if baby is not satisfied after breastfeeding?
If your baby is unsettled at the breast and doesn’t seem satisfied by feeds, it may be that they are sucking on the nipple alone. This may mean they are not getting enough milk. Ask for help to get your baby into a better feeding position.
How to know if baby isn’t tolerating breast milk?
Fussiness before eating because of hunger, during the feeding and then more fussy as they become more uncomfortable can be common. “Children with MSPI may cry 18 hours or more a day and may develop weight loss, congestion, repeated vomiting, reflux, and certain kinds of skin rashes.
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 …
How do I calm my fussy baby down after feeding?
Here are some ideas for calming a baby:
- Make sure all of the baby’s comfort needs are met.
- Use a pacifier.
- Stroke your baby’s head from the front of the forehead to the back of the neck.
- Try gently stroking the infant’s belly.
- Some babies may calm down with a slow, gentle motion-like swinging (Picture 2).
How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?
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. This lets you carefully look at your diet instead of getting rid of foods that may not be the cause of your baby’s distress.
Can my breast milk be upsetting my baby?
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.
Why does my baby pull away and cry while breastfeeding?
If you are about to feed and visitors arrive, or your phone is not next to you, or you are anticipating pain or a struggle feeding, you don’t release the hormone oxytocin as quickly so the let-down is slower and the baby can get frustrated and pull away. This often leads to an upset baby and it can upset you too.
