What to Do When Your Baby Suddenly Refuses to Nurse

Have you ever tried breastfeeding your baby only to face a mini protestor who refuses to nurse, no matter what you do?

Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and have the milk-stained T-shirt to prove it!

But don’t worry, because with a bit of understanding and some proven tips, you can successfully nurse even the most tenacious baby!

What is a nursing strike

A nursing strike or a breastfeeding strike is when a baby who has been breastfeeding suddenly stops.  

Nursing strikes usually last between 2 to 4 days, however they can last longer.

It’s important to distinguish a nursing strike from weaning. A nursing strike is a temporary refusal to nurse.

On the other hand, weaning is a gradual, permanent process where the baby reduces breastfeeding in favor of other foods.

Why would a baby go on a breastfeeding strike

Changes in Taste or Smell

Babies are quite sensitive to changes. If you’ve recently used a new soap, deodorant, or lotion, your baby might notice the difference in your smell and become hesitant to nurse.

Similarly, eating strong-flavored foods or hormonal changes (like getting your period or becoming pregnant) can change the taste of your milk, which your baby might not like.

Health Issues

If your baby has a cold, a stuffy nose can make it hard for them to breathe while nursing.

Ear infections or teething can also make sucking painful, leading to nursing strikes.

Thrush, a common fungal infection, can make your baby’s mouth sore, making nursing uncomfortable. Look for white patches in their mouth and see your doctor for treatment.

Additionally, an injury or soreness from a vaccination might cause discomfort in certain breastfeeding positions.

If you’ve been sick or taking medication, this can also contribute to nursing difficulties.

Slow Milk Flow

If your milk letdown is slow, your baby might get impatient and frustrated, turning away from the breast.

Especially if you’re combining both breastfeeding and bottle feeding, whether it’s pumped breast milk or formula. Your baby may become accustomed to a faster flow from the bottle and grow restless during breastfeeding when the milk doesn’t come as quickly.

Distractions and Fussiness

Babies are easily distracted by their surroundings, especially as they grow and become more aware of the world around them. Overstimulation from noise, lights, or activity can make it hard for them to focus on nursing.

Additionally, delayed feedings or extended separations from you can cause fussiness and make nursing more challenging.

If your baby bites during breastfeeding and you react strongly, it might startle them and make them hesitant to nurse again.

Changes in Nursing Patterns

Starting a new job, leaving your baby with someone else more often, or simply being busier than usual can disrupt your usual nursing routine.

Babies thrive on consistency, so any significant changes can trigger a nursing strike.

What to do when baby refuses breastfeeding?

Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you navigate this challenge with ease:

Investigate the Cause

Try to sleuth out what’s causing the strike, whether it’s a stuffy nose or discomfort from teething.

Understanding the underlying issue can guide your approach, helping you develop a plan to encourage your baby to breastfeed and providing reassurance that there’s a solution at hand.

Stay Calm and Keep Trying

Easier said than done, I know. But trust me, babies can smell fear (or is that just sour milk?), so keep your cool.

If your baby is frustrated, stop and try again later. Try not to stress about it. The baby will pick up on stress. Instead, try to stay calm and not force a feed. Allow your baby to take the lead.

Mix Things Up

If the usual nursing spot feels like a battleground, try changing the scenery.

A cozy corner, a rocking chair, or even a picnic blanket in the backyard might do the trick.

Additionally, try feeding your baby in a quiet room with no distractions to create a calm environment.

Change positions

Try different breastfeeding positions to see if you can get your baby more comfortable.

Read more about the common breastfeeding positions here.

Alternatively, you can attempt breastfeeding your baby while using a carrier; perhaps the movement will aid in soothing them.

Nurse during Sleepy Times

Try offering your breast to your baby during sleepy times, like during dream feeds or when they’re drifting off to sleep.

Sleeping together can provide easy access to the breast, making it more enticing for a baby who may be uninterested in feeding when awake.

Offer skin-to-Skin Snuggles

When all else fails, revert to the ultimate bonding technique: skin-to-skin.

Try cuddling your baby and engaging in skin-to-skin contact, which can renew their interest in breastfeeding.

When to Wave the White Flag and Seek Help

Okay, so you’ve tried everything under the sun, and your little rebel still refuses to budge. When is it time to throw in the towel and call in reinforcements? Here are a few signs that it might be time to tap out:

• Your baby is showing signs of dehydration or weight loss.
• You’re feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or downright exhausted.
• The strike lasts for more than 4 days, despite your best efforts.

Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. Whether it’s reaching out to a lactation consultant, seeking advice from fellow parents, or scheduling a check-up with your pediatrician, support is out there!

In the wild world of parenting, nursing strikes are just another bump in the road. But armed with patience, perseverance, and a lot of love, you can overcome any challenge that comes your way.

So, to all the tired, frustrated, milk-stained mamas out there, I salute you! You’ve got this!