Breastfeeding a teething baby can be challenging; sometimes it can feel like you have to start discovering everything from latching to nursing positions all over again. It may take a few days to zero in on what works best for you, but once you settle into a new system with your baby, teething shouldn’t be a roadblock to a happy, healthy breastfeeding experience.
Break The Suction
While feeding your baby, if you find that he/she nips at your breast by the end of the feed, then help break the suction created by your baby’s mouth around the breast by inserting your finger between them when you sense that the rhythmic sucking has paused.
Discourage Biting
If your baby bites, remove him/her from the breast. Over time, your baby will realise that biting signals the end of the feed and will learn to avoid biting you.
Ensure Right Latching And Position
Finding the right position for breastfeeding is important. When a baby is teething, their gums may be swollen and sore. The new teeth too may affect the latching. You may find that changing your nursing position and how you hold your baby can make you both more comfortable.
Ease Your Baby’s Pain Before Feeds
Check that your baby is latching deeply and feeding properly. If it appears that he/she is experiencing discomfort and is not nursing properly, you may need to find a way to ease the pain a little before he/she feeds. Something cold can numb the pain. A teething remedy can also help soothe sore gums.
Keep A Soft Cloth Handy
Teething babies tend to dribble more. Help keep your baby dry and more comfortable by wiping away excess drool before he/she begins to feed with a clean soft towel. This will also help keep your skin clear of any dribble that may potentially irritate your breasts and nipples too.
Use A Soothing Nipple Cream
Your nipples become more sensitive and tender during pregnancy. Mamaxpert Soothing Nipple Cream can soothe sore and cracked nipples, making breastfeeding more comfortable even when your baby is teething and occasionally nips at your breasts. It contains healing and nourishing ingredients like natural oils that deeply moisturise skin in lactating women and reduces any discomfort you may be experiencing as a result of feeding a teething baby.
Explore Mamaxpert products for self-care while breastfeeding and even after. These gentle products are safe for use before, during, and after pregnancy.