The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding exclusively for the first 6 months of a baby's life. The organization further states that continuing to breastfeed for a year or more is beneficial. Not only does breastfeeding provide an infant with essential nutrients and antibodies, it also helps the mother and baby bond. However, although it is a natural function, breastfeeding is not always effortless.
Teething Rings
Kathleen Huggins suggests in her book, "The Nursing Mother's Companion," to offer a cold teething ring or cloth to the baby before and after nursing. Allowing the infant to chew on the cold ring or cloth will help with the urge to bite while soothing his sore gums.
Do Not Startle the Baby
The La Leche League International advises nursing mothers not to yell, jump or startle the baby if he bites. Doing so may cause the baby to fear latching onto the nipple in the future. Instead, if the baby bites, gently roll his head away from the breast for a few minutes and try again. You may also softly say "no."
Watch for Cues
Nursing babies often refrain from biting while actively seeking milk. As soon as the baby is finished nursing, he may begin to play with the nipple, resulting in a bite. "Watch for a change in your baby's nursing pattern; as soon as she stops taking long even sucks and begins short choppy ones, end the feeding. If you notice a playful look on her face, end the feeding," advises Huggins.
Use the Breast for Feeding Only
According to Huggins, the breast should only be offered for full feedings rather than snacking. Snacking may cause boredom for the teething infant, providing opportunity for him to play with or bite the nipple.
Relax
Babies sense a mother's feelings easily, and it is no different when the child is breastfeeding. Stress, anxiety, frustration, anger or other negative feelings may make the baby nervous. A teething baby will respond better to a calm and relaxing environment.
References
- "The Nursing Mother's Companion"; Kathleen Huggins; 1990
- "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding"; La Leche League International; 1997
- American Academy of Pediatrics: AAP Releases Revised Breastfeeding Recommendations
