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Why does my babys face turn red when breastfeeding?

Understanding Why Your Baby’s Face Turns Red When Breastfeeding
It’s not uncommon for parents to notice their baby’s face turning red during breastfeeding, and this phenomenon can be attributed to several factors. Understanding these reasons can help alleviate concerns and ensure a comfortable feeding experience for both mother and child.
Body Heat and Positioning
One of the simplest explanations for a baby’s flushed face is the warmth generated from being close to the mother’s body. When a baby is pressed against the mother’s skin, especially during breastfeeding, the heat can cause their face to redden. This is particularly true for newborns, who are still learning to regulate their body temperature effectively.
Blocked Nose or Breathing Difficulties
Another common reason for facial redness is a blocked nose. Babies often breathe through their noses, and if they have congestion, it can lead to a flushed appearance as they struggle to get enough air while feeding. This can be exacerbated if the baby is in a position that makes breathing more difficult.
Dietary Sensitivities
In some cases, the redness may be linked to dietary sensitivities. If a breastfeeding mother consumes certain foods—such as spices, nuts, or dairy—these can transfer into her breast milk and potentially cause an allergic reaction in the baby. Symptoms may include redness or rashes on the face . If a mother suspects this might be the case, it may be beneficial to eliminate these foods from her diet temporarily to see if there is an improvement.
Allergic Reactions
More serious concerns could involve allergic reactions. If a baby has a food allergy, they might develop red blotches or hives on their face or other areas during or after breastfeeding. Common allergens include cow’s milk, eggs, and peanuts. If the redness is accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, it is crucial to seek medical advice promptly.
Emotional Responses
Lastly, emotional factors can also play a role. Babies can experience a range of emotions, including excitement or frustration, which may manifest as facial flushing. This is a normal part of their development as they learn to express themselves.
In conclusion, while a baby’s face turning red during breastfeeding can be concerning for new parents, it is often a benign reaction to body heat, positioning, or even dietary factors. However, if the redness persists or is accompanied by other worrying symptoms, consulting a pediatrician is always a wise choice to ensure the baby’s health and comfort.

How to tell if baby is too hot?

Here are some indicators a baby is too hot:

  • • Warm to the touch. • Flushed or red skin. • Rapid heartbeat. • Fast breathing. • Vomiting. • Lethargic or unresponsive. • Sweaty neck or damp hair. • Heat rash. • Restless and unable to sleep. •
  • If your baby is sick, it’s important to follow the advice of a healthcare professional.

Why is my baby’s face half red after nursing?

Usually occurring between two and five days of age, harlequin colour change has been seen as late as three weeks of age. The condition is benign, and the change of colour fades away in 30 seconds to 20 minutes. It may recur when the infant is placed on her or his side.

Why does my baby’s face get red when she eats?

Auriculotemporal syndrome (Frey’s syndrome, gustatory flushing syndrome) results in facial flushing and sweating after eating. It is commonly mistaken for food allergy. It is a benign harmless condition mainly affecting young infants and children.

How do I know if my baby is allergic to my breast milk?

“With milk protein intolerances, babies can be spitty, fussy and have bloody stools or gnarly poops, but those symptoms get better when mom avoids milk,” notes Dr. Bjelac. “Additionally, many kids outgrow milk intolerance by their first birthday, and 95% of kids have outgrown it by 2 or 3 years of age.”

What does a milk allergy rash look like?

Symptoms that can appear within minutes of having a small amount of milk include: raised red bumps of skin – hives (urticaria) itchy, red, weeping or crusty rash of the skin – dermatitis or eczema. swelling of the face.

Why does my baby’s face flare up when breastfeeding?

Maternal hormones play a role in baby acne, triggering bumps in some infants. Babies are exposed to fluctuating hormones before birth while in the womb, as well as after birth due to breastfeeding. Infants also have sensitive skin. This means their pores can easily clog, thus causing acne.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting baby?

If your baby shows negative symptoms after drinking breast milk. Consider how your baby responds to breast milk after drinking it. 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.

Why does my baby face go red when feeding?

in babies under six months is sometimes associated with allergies to milk and egg. often starts in young babies as a red, itchy rash on the face, scalp and body. as the child gets older, usually starts to develop in areas with folds of skin, such as behind the knees or on the front of the elbows.

What does milk allergy look like in breastfed babies?

Babies can react to milk proteins in formula, breast milk, or solid foods. The most common sign is blood in the stool. Allergic reactions range from mild to severe. Mild reactions cause symptoms such as changes in the stool and vomiting.

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.

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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