On Strike: What to do When Your Baby Refuses to Nurse

By definition, a breastfeeding (or nursing) strike is when a baby very suddenly stops nursing from the mother’s breast. Sometimes, babies that go on a nursing strike will become quite agitated when you offer your breast. When a breastfeeding strike comes on, it’s very sudden and it’s very clear that your baby is unhappy about something. Often is the case that your baby will want to feed at your breast but once you offer it, becomes extremely upset and refuses the offering.

Unfortunately, it can be very difficult to determine the cause of the strike. Sometimes, it’s the result of an ear infection, teething or other source of discomfort. However the good news is that breastfeeding strikes tend to only last a few hours or days.

How do you handle a nursing strike? Here are some strategies to use should this happen with you and your baby.

– Give comfort
Whatever is bothering your child, one thing is clear: it’s something. And while he can’t tell you, “It’s that pesky incisor again,” you can still be there for him with lots of cuddling and snuggles. If possible, make sure to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby as you sit and relax together. Do not put pressure on your baby to feed. Your baby might decide to nurse from this point, but don’t push it. Let it be his choice and let him make the moves.

– Express yourself
During a nursing strike, your breasts will be full and uncomfortable. You’ll need to express the milk to keep your milk supply up, not to mention relieve yourself and prevent clogged ducts.

– Bottle it
Contrary to popular belief, babies won’t take your breast when they feel hungry enough. You’ll have to get them to drink your expressed milk by whatever method works for them – bottle, cup, spoon-feeding, etc.

– Sleep-eating
One of the most effective ways to handle a breastfeeding strike is to offer your breast to your baby while he’s asleep. Because babies are programmed to suck, his natural reflexes will likely take over and he will latch on and begin to nurse as he sleeps. When babies are in pain, once they fall asleep, they’re in a state of comfort which makes them better able to nurse again.

– Wellness
Sometimes the cause of a breastfeeding strike is because of a stuffy nose. If your baby’s nose is stuffy or he seems a little under the weather, try using a humidifier near his crib to help clear him out. If you don’t have one, steam up your bathroom by turning the shower on hot. Then take your baby in there with a few books or toys and let him breathe in the relieving steam.

– Seek counsel
If you’re not seeing any improvements or just need some reassuring guidance, contact a lactation specialist or someone from La Leche League. They can help you through this rough patch, which will pass soon. We promise!

 

 

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