What to Do When Your Baby Refuses to Nurse
What to Do When Your Baby Refuses to Nurse
Babies often find comfort in suckling on their mother's nipple and enjoy the pleasure of breastfeeding. However, there are instances when babies develop an aversion to nursing. When this happens, mothers should remain calm and avoid pressuring their child to feed. Forcing a child to nurse can create deeper aversions to breastfeeding. So, what should mothers do when their baby refuses to nurse?
Feed More Freely: Many babies going through a nursing strike may not be willing to eat but can't ignore their hunger. In such cases, mothers can consider more relaxed and on-demand feeding. Offer smaller, frequent feedings throughout the day. Play with your baby and offer the breast casually. When the baby's hunger becomes more apparent, they are likely to feed more willingly. Feeding in a less structured manner is often more accepted by babies and can be an effective way to overcome a nursing strike.
Patiently Guide Your Baby: The duration of a nursing strike varies from baby to baby. Some may overcome it quickly, while others may take a longer time to adjust. During this period, it's crucial for mothers to remain patient and gently guide their baby. If a baby starts losing interest in nursing, their appetite might decrease, which can impact their growth. Mothers should patiently assist their baby through the nursing strike and avoid introducing adult foods too early, as this can reduce their interest in nursing.
Important Note: Refusal to nurse could sometimes be related to oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth). If your baby strongly resists breastfeeding and shows signs of mouth discomfort, it's advisable to check for oral thrush and consult a healthcare professional for treatment if necessary.
Babies often find comfort in suckling on their mother's nipple and enjoy the pleasure of breastfeeding. However, there are instances when babies develop an aversion to nursing. When this happens, mothers should remain calm and avoid pressuring their child to feed. Forcing a child to nurse can create deeper aversions to breastfeeding. So, what should mothers do when their baby refuses to nurse?
Feed More Freely: Many babies going through a nursing strike may not be willing to eat but can't ignore their hunger. In such cases, mothers can consider more relaxed and on-demand feeding. Offer smaller, frequent feedings throughout the day. Play with your baby and offer the breast casually. When the baby's hunger becomes more apparent, they are likely to feed more willingly. Feeding in a less structured manner is often more accepted by babies and can be an effective way to overcome a nursing strike.
Patiently Guide Your Baby: The duration of a nursing strike varies from baby to baby. Some may overcome it quickly, while others may take a longer time to adjust. During this period, it's crucial for mothers to remain patient and gently guide their baby. If a baby starts losing interest in nursing, their appetite might decrease, which can impact their growth. Mothers should patiently assist their baby through the nursing strike and avoid introducing adult foods too early, as this can reduce their interest in nursing.
Important Note: Refusal to nurse could sometimes be related to oral thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth). If your baby strongly resists breastfeeding and shows signs of mouth discomfort, it's advisable to check for oral thrush and consult a healthcare professional for treatment if necessary.
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