Breastfeeding can be a wonderful bonding experience, but it also comes with its share of challenges—one of which is teething. When your baby begins to cut their first teeth, you might notice changes in their feeding habits, fussiness, or even biting during nursing sessions. Many breastfeeding mothers worry about how teething will impact their breastfeeding journey, but with the right strategies and understanding, you can continue breastfeeding while supporting your baby through this milestone.
Signs Your Baby Is Teething
Teething can start as early as 4 to 6 months, but each baby is different. Some common signs of teething include:
- Increased drooling
- Swollen or tender gums
- Irritability or fussiness
- Chewing on objects or their hands
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Decreased interest in breastfeeding or nursing more frequently for comfort
As teeth begin to emerge, it can cause discomfort for your baby, which may lead to them changing their usual breastfeeding patterns. Some babies may nurse more often for comfort, while others may seem less interested in feeding.
Will Teething Affect Breastfeeding?
Teething can affect breastfeeding in several ways: You might notice your baby latching differently, being fussy at the breast, or in some cases, clamping/biting. These behaviors are often temporary and can be managed with a few simple strategies:
1. Address the Biting
Biting is one of the biggest concerns for breastfeeding moms when babies start teething. Babies may bite while nursing as a way to relieve their sore gums. While it can be painful, it’s important to remember that this behavior is not malicious.
- Be Prepared: Babies are less likely to bite when they are actively nursing. Fun fact! A baby cannot simultaneously bite while sucking, so rest assured it is a temporary thing. Biting tends to happen more often at the beginning or end of a feeding session. Watch for signs that your baby is finished nursing, such as slowing down or becoming distracted, and gently unlatch them before they have the chance to bite.
- Respond Calmly: If your baby bites, try not to react with a loud noise or yell, as this may startle them. Instead, calmly remove them from the breast and say, “No biting.” Offering a teething toy before or after breastfeeding can also help relieve their discomfort.
2. Offer Teething Relief Before Nursing
If your baby is fussy or uncomfortable due to teething pain, you can help soothe them before breastfeeding:
- Teething Toys: Offer a cold teething ring or a clean, wet washcloth for your baby to chew on before nursing. The cool sensation can help numb their gums and reduce discomfort.
- Gum Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s gums with a clean finger before breastfeeding can also provide some relief.
3. Switch Up Nursing Positions
As your baby’s teeth begin to emerge, they may latch differently to find a comfortable position. Trying different breastfeeding positions can help you find one that works best for both you and your baby. Koala hold, cross cradle, or football hold are good ones to try!
4. Offer Comfort Nursing, But Set Boundaries
Many babies nurse for comfort during the teething phase, which is normal. However, if your baby starts biting or becomes too fussy to nurse effectively, it’s okay to take a break and offer comfort in other ways, such as rocking, holding, or singing to your baby. Always prioritize a positive nursing experience for both of you.
Is It Safe to Continue Breastfeeding While Baby Is Teething?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to continue breastfeeding while your baby is teething. In fact, breastfeeding can provide comfort and security during this time of change. Breastfeeding doesn’t damage your baby’s teeth, and in many cases, the closeness and soothing effect of breastfeeding can help ease teething discomfort.
When to Seek Help
While teething is a normal developmental milestone, if you find breastfeeding extremely painful, or if your baby constantly bites and it becomes difficult to continue nursing, it may be time to seek help from a lactation consultant. They can help assess your baby’s latch, provide strategies to manage biting, and offer support tailored to your situation. If you have concerns about teething and breastfeeding, or if you’re experiencing persistent issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant for personalized guidance and support.
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