Why is my newborn crying while breastfeeding?

Understanding Why Your Newborn Cries While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a serene bonding experience between mother and child, but for many new parents, it can also be a source of confusion and concern, especially when a newborn cries during feeding. This behavior is not uncommon and can stem from a variety of factors.
Common Reasons for Crying During Breastfeeding
1. Milk Flow Issues: One of the most frequent reasons a baby might cry while breastfeeding is related to the flow of milk. If the milk comes out too quickly—often referred to as an “overactive let-down”—the baby may struggle to manage the flow. This can lead to coughing, gagging, or pulling away in frustration as they try to coordinate their breathing and suckling. Conversely, if the milk flow is too slow or inadequate, the baby may become irritated and cry out of hunger.
2. Discomfort and Gas: Babies are sensitive creatures, and discomfort from gas or colic can lead to fussiness during feeding. If a baby is experiencing digestive discomfort, they may squirm, pull away, or cry while trying to feed. This can be particularly common in the early weeks as their digestive systems are still maturing.
3. Positioning and Latch Issues: A poor latch can cause pain for both the mother and the baby. If the baby is not latched on correctly, they may not be able to extract milk effectively, leading to frustration and crying. Ensuring that the baby is positioned comfortably and latched on properly can help alleviate this issue.
4. Overstimulation or Fatigue: Newborns can become easily overstimulated by their environment. If there are too many distractions or if the baby is tired, they may cry during breastfeeding as a way to express their discomfort or need for a calmer setting.
5. Emotional Factors: Babies can also cry due to emotional reasons. They may be seeking comfort or reassurance from their mother, especially if they are feeling anxious or insecure. This is a natural part of their development as they learn to navigate the world around them.
What Can Parents Do?
If your newborn is crying while breastfeeding, there are several strategies you can employ to help soothe them:
– Adjust Feeding Position: Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find one that is comfortable for both you and your baby. A good latch can make a significant difference.

– Monitor Milk Flow: If you suspect an overactive let-down, try nursing in a more reclined position to slow the flow, or express a little milk before latching the baby on.
– Create a Calm Environment: Reduce distractions during feeding by finding a quiet, comfortable space. Dimming the lights and minimizing noise can help your baby feel more secure.
– Burp Frequently: If gas is a concern, try burping your baby more frequently during feeds to help relieve any discomfort.
– Seek Support: If the crying persists and you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to a lactation consultant or a breastfeeding support group. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance.
In conclusion, while it can be distressing to see your newborn cry during breastfeeding, understanding the potential reasons behind this behavior can help you address the issue effectively. Remember, every baby is unique, and it may take some time to find the right approach that works for both you and your little one.

Why does my baby pull away and cry while breastfeeding?

Sometimes, your milk lets down so fast that your baby can have trouble swallowing the amount of milk that’s being released. Because of this, your baby may act fussy at breast or choke and sputter at the breast, and he or she may be quite gassy.

Why is my baby grunting and pulling away while breastfeeding?

Some mothers have a strong milk ejection reflex. This means that your baby can get a lot of milk with each suck. Your newborn may find this amount of milk hard to handle. This may make your baby pull away from the breast when the flow is strongest.

Why is my baby crying out while 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.

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 cry and push away while breastfeeding?

Sometimes, your milk lets down so fast that your baby can have trouble swallowing the amount of milk that’s being released. Because of this, your baby may act fussy at breast or choke and sputter at the breast, and he or she may be quite gassy.

How to tell if a newborn is allergic to breast milk?

Symptoms of dairy allergy in breastfed babies
Some of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include: Hives or skin rash. Nausea or vomiting. Abdominal pain.

How to tell if baby is comfort nursing?

Your baby is only nursing for comfort nursing when you see these signs:

1. Flutter sucking, slowing down, stop sucking, or making little sucks.
2. Still and looking into space while nursing.
3. Holding the nipple in their mouth but not sucking for milk.
4. Rooting and sucking lightly at the breast.
5. Arching and grabbing ears.

Why is baby crying while nursing?

Many babies will cry, fuss, pull off the breast, etc. if they need to burp. Try to burp between breasts and after a feeding, but don’t worry if baby does not burp and is content. Breastfed babies overall don’t take in as much air during a feeding as bottle-fed babies do, so usually don’t need to burp as often.

Why does my baby keep unlatching and crying?

Babies who are having trouble getting a full meal might unlatch and fuss or cry. They may also seem to “shut down” at the breast. Either way, if you have any suspicions that your baby isn’t getting enough to eat, you should speak to your doctor or a lactation consultant as soon as possible.

Why does my newborn pull away and cry while breastfeeding?

Sometimes babies will refuse or fuss at a breast when the let-down is slower or too forceful, or the supply a bit lower. They in turn will prefer the side which lets down more/less quickly and in which the supply is more bountiful.