Preparing for Breastfeeding

Biting and Breast feeding

Biting and Breast feeding

Not all babies bite when being breastfed. If a baby is breastfeeding correctly it will not be able to bite because their tongue is over the bottom gum and teeth. Baby’s are more likely to bite when not actively feeding which is at the beginning or at the end of feeding.

Teething Baby’s and Breast feeding

A teething baby has tender gums and likes to chew to relieve their gums. Try giving the baby something hard to chew on. Some babies with new teeth wil rest them on the mother’s aerola or breast, which leaves little indentations, which can still be painful. Try taking care with the position of your baby when breastfeeding, and that your baby is held close, has a big wide mouth and chin next to your breast.

A nipple that has been bitten can be treated in the same way as a cracked nipple, with a little milk and changing damp nursing pads. However if you continue to feel pain, you might like to consult your Doctor to see what pain relief can be provided.

Why do Babies bite

Some babies bite while breastfeeding because the milk does not come quickly enough or because the baby is trying to get your attention at the end of a feed, if they do this remove them from the breast immediately and with a firm voice say “No”. If the baby is impatient, try expressing some milk before the feed.

Biting while breastfeeding is usually just a temporary stage. Those who did get past this stage find that they are happy to breast feed for a long time.

Consult your Doctor if you are still having problems with breast feeding.