Getting Through a Nursing Strike: You’re Not Alone
How to manage when your baby suddenly hates breastfeeding!
One of the more challenging moments in your breastfeeding journey can be when your baby suddenly refuses to nurse, a situation known as a nursing strike. Unlike the gradual process of weaning, a nursing strike can happen out of the blue, leaving both you and your little one feeling confused and upset.
Let’s talk about what it is and how to get through it with as few tears as possible – both for you and your baby!
Nursing strikes can occur at any age, whether your baby is three months or a year old. It’s natural to wonder if your baby is trying to wean but remember that true baby-led weaning before the age of one isn’t as common, and typically happens slowly over time. Nursing strikes tend to be more sudden and out-of-the-blue.
When your baby who previously nursed without any issues suddenly refuses the breast—perhaps even crying when you approach your usual nursing spot—it’s time to play detective and figure out what might be causing this change.
Common triggers for a nursing strike include:
· Teething
· Ear infections
· Stress from recent travel or visitors
· The excitement of reaching new milestones like learning to walk (why sit still when you can move?!).
Understanding what might be behind the strike can help you decide how best to respond.
Most nursing strikes last between two and four days, though some might stretch on a bit longer. During this time, it’s crucial to protect your milk supply by expressing milk regularly, either by hand or with a pump, at your baby’s usual feeding times. You can offer this milk in a bottle or cup but try to avoid making it too easy for your baby—this way, they’ll still be encouraged to nurse at the breast. However, at the end of the day making sure your baby gets the milk they need – whether by breast, bottle, or otherwise – is what matters.
An important key to overcoming a nursing strike is patience. Keep offering the breast, but if it becomes stressful for either you or your baby, it’s okay to take a break. If your baby starts resisting or gets upset, pause and try again later. Pushing too hard can create negative associations with breastfeeding, making the strike even more challenging.
Creating more opportunities for nursing can help, whether through frequent skin-to-skin contact or even taking a relaxing bath together. Some moms find that their baby is more willing to nurse when they’re sleepy, so offering the breast during a dream feed or early in the morning when your baby is still drowsy might help ease them back into nursing.
While most nursing strikes are temporary and can be resolved, there are times when a strike might last longer or signal the beginning of weaning. If this happens, it’s important to seek support, especially if you had hoped to breastfeed longer. Connecting with a lactation consultant can provide guidance and help you navigate this phase of your breastfeeding journey with confidence and grace.
Remember, you and your baby are in this together, and you’ll find your way through – no matter the outcome.
Until next time,
Dr. Jen
Reference
La Leche League International. The Breastfeeding Answer Book. 3rd revised edition.