deS`
Baby Community Member
- Katılım
- 4/6/24
- Mesajlar
- 65
Breast refusal is a common and often stressful situation for many parents. A baby who previously breastfed well may suddenly refuse the breast. The good news is that in most cases, breast refusal is temporary and can be resolved with the right approach and patience.
Causes of Breast Refusal in Babies
Baby-related causes
- Gas, reflux, or teething, which may cause discomfort during feeding
- Nasal congestion, making it hard for the baby to breathe while nursing
- Overstimulation or overtiredness
- Growth spurts, which may temporarily change feeding patterns
Mother-related causes
- Fast or slow milk flow
- Nipple confusion due to bottle or pacifier use
- Changes in smell, such as perfume, deodorant, or soap
- Maternal stress or anxiety, which babies can easily sense
Timing issues
- Trying to breastfeed when the baby is too full
- Waiting until the baby is overly hungry, leading to frustration
Solutions for Breast Refusal
1. Do not force the baby
Forcing the baby to nurse can create negative associations with breastfeeding.
2. Create a calm environment
- Use dim lighting
- Reduce noise and distractions
- Practice skin-to-skin contact
3. Skin-to-skin contact
Hold your baby against your bare chest without pressure to breastfeed. This often helps restore natural feeding instincts.
4. Try feeding when the baby is drowsy
Babies are more likely to nurse:
- Just after waking up
- While falling asleep
5. Adjust milk flow
- If milk flow is too fast, try reclining while breastfeeding
- If milk flow is slow, express a small amount of milk before feeding
6. Pay attention to scent
- Avoid perfumes or strongly scented products
- Do not over-wash the nipples; warm water is enough
7. Experiment with different positions
- Football hold
- Side-lying position
- Walking or gently rocking while nursing
When to Seek Professional Help
- If breast refusal lasts longer than 2–3 weeks
- If the baby is not gaining enough weight
- If feeding is consistently stressful or painful
In such cases, consulting a pediatrician or a lactation consultant is highly recommended.
