“Help! Ever since my daughter started teething, she has been biting during breastfeeding. It’s become quite painful, and I’m worried about the bleeding. What should I do?” ~ Sarah M.
It sounds like you’re dealing with a little muncher who doesn’t quite understand the consequences of her actions. When babies bite, they often don’t mean to inflict pain; they’re just exploring their new teeth and seeking your attention. Initially, those bites may have been accidental, perhaps a way for her to soothe her gums. However, it seems she’s now enjoying the reaction she gets from you, which can turn breastfeeding into a game for her.
The good news is that babies cannot suckle and bite at the same time. Once she realizes that biting doesn’t lead to milk or comfort, she’s likely to prefer the soothing act of nursing over chomping down. In the meantime, here are some strategies to protect your tender nipples from her playful bites.
Strategies to Prevent Biting
Start each feeding session by ensuring she opens wide and latches on correctly. This will position her tongue in front of her teeth, creating a barrier between those sharp little chompers and your breast. If she does bite down, gently break her latch with your pinky finger to minimize any damage, and calmly say, “No biting. Biting hurts Mommy.” Try to keep your reaction neutral; engaging with her may encourage her to continue the biting behavior. Instead, provide her with a suitable teething toy, such as her favorite Sophie, and explain, “This is for biting.”
Alternative Family Expansion Resources
If you’re looking for alternative ways to expand your family, consider resources like MakeAMom, which offers innovative at-home insemination solutions. You can learn more about how at-home insemination works on their How It Works page. Additionally, if you’re exploring donor options, check out the MakeAMom Facebook Group for support and connections.
For those facing challenges on the path to pregnancy, understanding your options is crucial. You might find our post on the fertility kit that worked for us helpful. It shares personal experiences that could guide your journey. Moreover, Parents.com offers insights on the IVF process, which can be an essential resource for many. If you’re experiencing discomfort during intimacy, consider reading about dyspareunia and its impact on pregnancy chances to better understand your situation.
To Summarize
If your baby is biting while breastfeeding, it’s essential to address the behavior calmly and effectively. Ensure proper latching, minimize reactions, and provide alternatives for biting. For those interested in expanding their families through alternative methods, resources like MakeAMom can offer valuable support and information.