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| How to Deal With a Fussy, Teething Breastfed Baby - Image by Holiak on Freepik |
If you're a breastfeeding mother, you know how beautiful and rewarding it can be to nourish your baby with your own milk. But as your little one begins to teethe, you may encounter some challenges that can make breastfeeding feel like a struggle. Teething can cause discomfort, pain, and fussiness in babies, which can make them resistant to nursing. As a result, breastfeeding moms may find themselves feeling frustrated and helpless when their once-content baby becomes fussy and difficult during feeding sessions.
But don't worry, mama! You're not alone. Breastfeeding a teething baby is a common challenge, and there are plenty of tips and tricks that can help soothe your little one and make breastfeeding easier for both of you. In this post, we'll explore how to deal with a fussy, teething breastfed baby, and offer practical advice for managing this challenging phase. From understanding the stages of teething to trying different breastfeeding positions, we'll cover everything you need to know to help your little one get through this tough time while still getting the nourishment they need. So grab a cup of tea and let's dive in!
Understanding Teething
Understanding teething is an important first step in learning how to deal with a fussy, teething breastfed baby. The signs of teething can vary from baby to baby, but some common ones include drooling, fussiness, and the urge to chew on objects. These signs typically start to appear around 4-6 months of age, although some babies may experience them earlier or later.
Teething occurs in stages, with the first stage being the emergence of the front teeth, followed by the molars and canines. The emergence of each tooth can cause discomfort and pain, which can lead to fussiness and irritability in your little one.
As your baby starts to teethe, it can also impact their breastfeeding habits. Some babies may nurse less frequently due to the discomfort of having something in their mouth, while others may nurse more frequently as a way to soothe their sore gums. Additionally, the pressure of nursing can sometimes exacerbate teething pain, leading to a fussy and uncomfortable baby.
By understanding the typical signs and stages of teething, you can better anticipate and respond to your baby's needs during this challenging time. In the next section, we'll explore some tips and tricks for soothing a fussy, teething breastfed baby, so you can both get through this phase with as little stress as possible.
Tips for Soothing a Fussy, Teething Breastfed Baby
Now that we've discussed the signs and stages of teething, let's dive into some practical tips for soothing a fussy, teething breastfed baby. These tips can help reduce discomfort for your little one and make breastfeeding more manageable for both of you.
One effective tip is to offer a clean, chilled teething toy before breastfeeding. The cold temperature can help numb your baby's gums and provide some relief from teething pain. Be sure to choose a toy that is safe for your baby to chew on and wash it thoroughly before use.
Another strategy is to use a teething necklace or bracelet to distract your baby during feeding. These necklaces are designed to be worn by the mother and can provide a safe and chewable distraction for your little one. Just be sure to supervise your baby while they're using it and remove it when you're not around.
Experimenting with different breastfeeding positions can also be helpful in reducing discomfort for your baby. Some positions may put less pressure on their gums, making nursing more comfortable. Try different positions, such as the football hold or side-lying position, to find the one that works best for you and your baby.
If your baby is experiencing a lot of discomforts while nursing, you might consider using a nipple shield. These shields can help reduce pain and provide a barrier between your baby's gums and your nipple. Just be sure to talk to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider before using a nipple shield to make sure it's the right choice for you and your baby.
Finally, don't be afraid to take breaks during feeding to give your baby a chance to soothe themselves. This could mean gently rocking them, singing a lullaby, or simply giving them a few minutes to calm down before resuming feeding. Remember, teething is a tough time for both you and your baby, and it's okay to take a breather when you need it.
By using these tips and techniques, you can help ease your baby's discomfort and make breastfeeding a more enjoyable experience for both of you. In the next section, we'll discuss some additional strategies for coping with a fussy, teething breastfed baby.
Teething Remedies for Breastfeeding Mothers
As a breastfeeding mother, it can be tough to see your baby in pain while teething. But there are remedies you can try to help ease their discomfort and make nursing a more comfortable experience for both of you. Here are some teething remedies that are safe for breastfeeding mothers.
One option is to offer your baby chilled fruits or vegetables to gnaw on. Some great options include chilled cucumber slices, frozen berries, or even a cold carrot. The cool temperature can help soothe sore gums and provide some relief for your little one.
Another option is to use a natural teething gel to numb your baby's gums. Look for gels made with natural ingredients like clove oil or chamomile, which can help reduce inflammation and ease pain. Just be sure to check with your pediatrician first to make sure the gel is safe for your baby.
Applying a warm compress to your baby's jaw can also be helpful in easing teething pain. Simply soak a washcloth in warm water and apply it to your baby's jaw for a few minutes at a time. The warmth can help relax their muscles and reduce discomfort.
If your baby is experiencing a lot of pain, you might consider using a breastfeeding-safe pain reliever as needed. Acetaminophen is a common over-the-counter option that is safe for breastfeeding mothers to use. Just be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Remember, teething is a difficult time for both you and your baby, but there are remedies and strategies you can try to make it more manageable. By using these tips and techniques, you can help soothe your baby's discomfort and make breastfeeding a more comfortable experience for both of you. In the next section, we'll discuss some additional tips for coping with a fussy, teething breastfed baby.
Coping with the Challenges of Breastfeeding a Teething Baby
Breastfeeding a teething baby can present unique challenges that can make even the most experienced nursing mothers feel overwhelmed. As your baby's first teeth start to emerge, they may become fussier and more irritable during feeding times. Fortunately, there are several ways to make this process a little easier for both you and your little one.
One common concern that breastfeeding mothers have when their baby starts teething is whether their milk supply is sufficient to meet their baby's needs. However, it's important to remember that breast milk is still the best source of nutrition for your growing baby, even when they're teething. If you're concerned about your milk supply, try pumping or hand expressing after feedings to help stimulate milk production. You can also talk to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for additional support.
Another challenge that can arise when breastfeeding a teething baby is the potential for biting during feeding. This can be painful and uncomfortable for both you and your baby, and may even cause you to feel anxious about feeding times. To prevent biting, make sure your baby is latched on properly and keep a close eye on them during feedings. If you sense that your baby is about to bite, gently insert a finger into their mouth to break the suction and remove your breast.
Nighttime feedings can also be challenging when your baby is teething. To make nighttime feedings easier, try nursing in a side-lying position, which can be more comfortable and allow you to rest while your baby feeds. You can also try offering a chilled teething toy or frozen washcloth to help soothe your baby's gums before and after feedings.
Remember, every baby is different, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with a fussy, teething breastfed baby. By understanding the signs of teething, using soothing remedies, and being patient and flexible during feeding times, you can help make this phase a little easier for both you and your baby.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with a fussy, teething breastfed baby can be a challenging experience, but there are many strategies and remedies that can help ease the discomfort for both baby and mom. Remember to pay attention to the signs of teething and adjust your feeding routine as needed to make the baby more comfortable. Don't hesitate to try different remedies and consult with your healthcare provider if needed. And most importantly, remember that you're doing a great job as a breastfeeding mom and that this phase will pass. Hang in there and keep up the good work!
FAQs
Do babies reject breast when teething?
Yes, some babies may reject the breast due to the discomfort of teething. They may also nurse for shorter periods of time or exhibit fussy behavior during feeding.
Do babies nurse a lot when teething?
Yes, some babies may nurse more frequently when teething as they seek comfort from breastfeeding.
How many days does teething last?
Teething can last for several months, with each tooth taking a few days to a few weeks to emerge.
How do you calm a fussy baby when breastfeeding?
Offering a chilled teething toy before breastfeeding, using a different breastfeeding position, and taking breaks during feeding can help calm a fussy baby while breastfeeding.
Does breastmilk change when baby is teething?
While breastmilk doesn't change during teething, babies may nurse more frequently or for shorter periods of time due to discomfort.
Do pacifiers help with teething?
Pacifiers can provide some relief for teething babies by giving them something to suck on, but they should be used with caution as they can impact breastfeeding and may increase the risk of ear infections.
What to do when the baby is teething and won't stop crying?
Offer chilled fruits or vegetables to gnaw on, use a natural teething gel, apply a warm compress to the jaw, and use a breastfeeding-safe pain reliever as needed to soothe a crying, teething baby.
How can I ease the pain of teething?
Chilled teething toys, natural teething remedies, and gentle massages of the gums can help ease the pain of teething.
What is the best pain relief for teething babies?
A natural teething gel, breastmilk popsicles, and a breastfeeding-safe pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can provide relief for teething babies.