Why is my boob the only thing that calms my baby?

The Comfort of the Breast: Understanding Why Babies Find Solace in Their Mother’s Boob
For many new parents, the experience of soothing a fussy baby can often lead to a surprising realization: the breast is not just a source of nourishment but also a powerful tool for comfort. This phenomenon, where a baby finds calmness and security in breastfeeding, can be attributed to several biological and psychological factors.
Biological Bonding and Nutritional Needs
Breastfeeding is fundamentally designed to support a baby’s growth and development. The act of nursing provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are crucial for an infant’s health. However, beyond mere nutrition, breastfeeding fosters a deep emotional connection between mother and child. The physical closeness during feeding releases oxytocin, often referred to as the “bonding hormone,” which enhances feelings of love and attachment. This biological response not only helps the baby feel secure but also reinforces the mother’s nurturing instincts.
The Role of Non-Nutritive Sucking
Interestingly, many babies engage in what is known as non-nutritive sucking, where they suck at the breast not necessarily for milk but for comfort. This behavior mimics the soothing effects of a pacifier, providing a sense of security and familiarity. The rhythmic act of sucking can be incredibly calming for infants, helping them to self-soothe during moments of distress. This instinctual behavior is rooted in their early development, where sucking is one of the first reflexes they exhibit.
The Psychological Aspect of Comfort
From a psychological perspective, the breast represents a safe haven for babies. In the womb, they were surrounded by the comforting sounds and sensations of their mother’s body. After birth, the breast continues to provide a similar sense of security. The warmth, smell, and heartbeat of the mother create an environment that is reminiscent of their prenatal experience, making the breast a natural source of comfort.
Coping with Stress and Anxiety
For many babies, the world outside the womb can be overwhelming. New sights, sounds, and sensations can lead to stress and anxiety. The act of breastfeeding not only meets their nutritional needs but also serves as a coping mechanism. When a baby is upset, the familiar act of nursing can help them regulate their emotions and feel safe. This is particularly evident during growth spurts or developmental milestones when babies may seek the breast more frequently for comfort.
Conclusion: A Multifaceted Source of Comfort
In summary, the reason your baby finds solace in your breast is a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and emotional factors. The breast serves not only as a source of nourishment but also as a comforting presence that helps babies navigate their new world. Understanding this can empower parents to embrace the natural instincts of both themselves and their infants, fostering a nurturing environment that promotes healthy development and bonding.

How can I get my baby to self soothe without breastfeeding?

Ideas might be to offer a warm bath, followed by a massage with lotion, pajamas, and a last feed (or book reading for older babies). By creating a calm routine that’s repeated nightly, baby is likely more happy to self soothe on their own.

Why does breastfeeding calm my baby?

B: Oxytocin contained in human breastmilk and further released during breastfeeding through suckling, touch, and warmth facilitates socio-emotional functioning in the infant by enhancing positive tendencies (approach) and reducing negative tendencies (withdrawal and anxiety).

How to stop baby using boob for comfort?

Babies breastfeed for comfort as well as food. Phasing out breastfeeding gently will give you both time to get used to the idea. Stopping gradually will also help prevent problems like overfull, hard (engorged) breasts and mastitis. You’ll probably find it easiest to drop 1 feed at a time.

What age do babies self soothe?

Between 3 and 6 months old, infants will often show signs of being able to practice self soothing.

Does soft breasts mean low milk supply?

You do not have low milk supply because your breasts feel softer than they used to. The excessive fullness we experience in the early days of breastfeeding is about vascular engorgement (blood and lymph) and it’s about the body inefficiently storing unnecessary amounts of milk between feeds.

Does comfort nursing count as feeding?

Comfort nursing is the name sometimes used to describe breastfeeding for reasons other than for food such as breastfeeding a baby to sleep, calming a crying baby or because baby enjoys sucking. Babies will still get a little milk while they are comfort nursing and it’s a great mothering tool.

How do I stop my baby from comfort nursing?

A baby may just need a minute or two at the breast, more for comfort than for food. When the baby has had a minute or two, urge the child to stop and interest them in something else. Postpone breastfeeding sessions. Tell your baby that you’ll nurse later, such as after you finish preparing dinner.

Why does my baby use my breast as a pacifier?

Nursing frequently and using the breast as a pacifier are what builds a good milk supply and helps you and your baby develop a special closeness during the period immediately after your baby’s birth. Use the fact that you are exclusively nursing during the first few weeks to get more rest.

Why is nursing the only way to calm baby?

Calming an upset baby is a natural part of parenting, and breastfeeding is a natural way to do so. Sucking actually releases sleep inducing hormones, which can help babies establish their circadian rhythms.

Why does my baby use my breast for comfort?

Your little one may continue to suck for a variety of reasons beyond hunger including sucking to calm themselves, or because they like the closeness and warmth of being near mom. However, as they shift to this non-nutritive sucking, they can also slip to the tip of the nipple where their latch becomes shallow.