How to Cope With a Baby that Won't Nurse

Even babies who have been breastfeeding consistently for months can suddenly refuse to nurse. This is referred to as a nursing strike. It is not unusual and there is typically a specific reason for the strike--anything from the mother's diet to the baby's teething--but it's still upsetting and frustrating for parents. Luckily, nursing strikes are almost always temporary. If your baby suddenly refuses to breastfeed, it's helpful to know how to cope with the situation.

Instructions

1

Consider your diet. Have you eaten something strong or spicy that you normally do not eat? Garlicky or spicy foods may upset a baby's tummy. Foods such as cabbage or broccoli may give her gas. Or your baby may refuse to nurse because of the strong flavors these foods impart in your breast milk.

2

Check if your baby has begun teething. Most babies do not begin to cut teeth until they are at least 6 months old, but it's possible for teething to occur earlier. If your baby is teething, nursing can actually be painful for him because of the pressure it puts on his gums. If your baby is getting teeth, you might be able to feel them through his gums with your finger, but more likely you'll see symptoms of pre-teething first: fever, drooling, biting, ear pulling, chin rash, difficulty sleeping and irritability.

3

Resist giving your baby formula. Giving your baby a bottle of formula may actually make the problem worse because it could reduce your milk supply while you're not nursing. Rest assured that nursing strikes usually only last a day or two.

4

Try some breast milk in a bottle. Pump a bit of breast milk and put it in a bottle for your baby. This will not work if there is something in your milk that your baby does not like, but it is worth a try if he keeps refusing the breast. This is a good option if you are worried that your baby has gone too long without eating. Even if your baby doesn't drink the milk, pumping maintains your milk supply.

5

Keep offering your baby the breast. This may be frustrating, but be persistent. In all likelihood, your baby will begin nursing again as suddenly as she stopped. Your baby can't tell you why she went on this nursing strike, and she can't tell you when she'll be done. So it's best to keep offering your baby the breast so it's there when she's ready for it.

6

Hold off on solid foods. If you began feeding your baby solids and he started refusing to breastfeed, the solid foods may be curbing his appetite for milk. During the first 6 months to a year, a baby should get most of his nutrition from breast milk (if you're breastfeeding). If solid foods are interfering with nursing, cut back on the solid foods until he begins to nurse again.