Why is my baby squirming and fussing while breastfeeding?

Understanding Your Baby’s Fussing and Squirming While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding can be a beautiful bonding experience, but it can also come with its challenges. If your baby is squirming and fussing during feeds, it’s important to understand the various reasons behind this behavior. Here are some common factors that might be contributing to your baby’s discomfort.
1. Discomfort from Ear Infections or Reflux
One significant reason for a baby’s fussiness while breastfeeding could be discomfort caused by an ear infection. When a baby lies down to nurse, the pressure from fluid in the ear can lead to pain, prompting them to squirm and fuss. Similarly, gastroesophageal reflux can also cause distress during feeding, as the baby may experience discomfort from the milk coming back up.
2. Tiredness and Overstimulation
Babies often squirm when they are tired. They may initially settle down to nurse but then become restless if they are not ready to eat or if they are overstimulated by their surroundings. In such cases, a short nap before feeding might help. Overstimulation can make it difficult for them to focus on nursing, leading to fussiness.
3. Uncomfortable Positions and Poor Latch
Another common issue is the baby’s latch and positioning. If the baby is not latched on correctly, it can lead to discomfort for both the mother and the baby. A poor latch can cause sore nipples and ineffective milk transfer, which may result in the baby becoming frustrated and squirming. Ensuring that your baby is positioned comfortably and securely can make a significant difference.
4. Hunger and Milk Flow Issues
Sometimes, a baby may fuss due to hunger or frustration with the milk flow. If the milk is flowing too slowly or if the mother is experiencing low milk production, the baby might become agitated. In these situations, gentle breast compressions can help encourage milk flow and keep the baby calm.
5. Diaper Discomfort
It’s also worth considering that a dirty or wet diaper can lead to fussiness. Babies are sensitive to discomfort, and taking a moment to change their diaper before continuing to nurse can often resolve the issue.
6. Growth Spurts and Food Sensitivities
During growth spurts, babies may exhibit increased fussiness as their feeding patterns change. Additionally, some babies may have sensitivities to certain foods in the mother’s diet, which can lead to discomfort during breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Understanding why your baby is squirming and fussing while breastfeeding can help you address their needs more effectively. Whether it’s discomfort from an ear infection, tiredness, or issues with latch and milk flow, being attentive to these signs can enhance the breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby. If the fussiness persists or if you have concerns about your baby’s health, consulting a pediatrician or a lactation consultant can provide further guidance and support.

Why do babies get restless while 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.

Why is my baby crying and unlatching while breastfeeding?

When you try to latch your little one on the breast, your baby may push off crying or fall asleep after a few tries at latching. Your breasts may have become engorged because your body is making more milk than your baby’s needs or it may be from excess swelling called edema from your body’s response to IV fluids.

Why is my baby so fidgety when feeding?

They may become impatient and push away with their legs and fists. Many babies around 4 to 6 months of age become easily distracted. They start to become more aware of the environment around them and many noises can distract them from feeding.

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 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.

Why does my baby thrash around while nursing?

You Have Overactive Letdown
As a response, they may twist and tug to try and make the milk flow slow down or stop. This torrential letdown effect often happens in the first few weeks of nursing when your milk first comes in and before your body gets into a rhythm of producing the right amount of milk for your baby.

Why is my baby so agitated when feeding?

Experts can’t always pinpoint the exact reason it happens, but fussiness is especially common in the first few months of life, and also during evening feedings. Some babies fuss when they’re having a growth spurt, or when they’re struggling with a fast milk flow.

Why does my baby kick and squirm while breastfeeding?

If nursing is not the calm bonding you were expecting, don’t worry. Some squirming is normal, but if your baby is especially active and squirmy during feedings, it could indicate that they are frustrated.

Why is my baby squirming and grunting at the breast?

Many mothers report that the grunting and squirming stop after a few weeks. It is a case-by-case situation, and it is different for every child. The grunting can start right after birth or a month later, but if this phase lasts longer than a few weeks, contact your doctor and ask for guidance and support.

Why is my baby thrashing around while breastfeeding?

Overactive letdown (known medically as hyperlactation) can make it hard for a baby to keep up with the steady stream of milk. As a response, they may twist and tug to try and make the milk flow slow down or stop.