Breastfeeding and Biting

Babies may try and bite during breastfeeds for a number of reasons, this blog discusses the reasons why it might be happening, and what you can do if your baby does bite.

It can be very challenging and can really hurt (both physically and emotionally) if your breastfeeding baby bites you. 

Being bitten during feeds can be a big fear for many mothers, and if your baby does bite, it can make feeds a tense time, where it’s hard to relax in case your ‘baby jaws’ strikes again.

Teething

Teething can be a tricky time for parents and babies. Babies are often uncomfortable and in pain during teething. Their mouths hurt, and feel strange, and they may have an intense need to gnaw on things to try and bring relief. This may include your breast!

What to do

Treat the teething; medications or cold objects to gnaw on before breastfeeds can help numb the gums and make it less likely your baby will bite.

Lack of flow/boredom

Babies can sometimes bite mid feed if the flow has slowed or stopped.

What to do

Keep an eye on your baby’s swallows and if they stop, use compressions, switch sides, or end the feed before they get a chance to bite. It’s also worth bearing in mind that in order to bite, your baby likely has to change position at your breast, slipping their tongue back and away from your breast, allowing their bottom gum line to make contact with your breast, so keeping your baby pulled in tight will prevent them from being able to slip the latch.

Illness

If your baby is unwell with a cold or blocked nose, they may be more likely to try and bite during feeds as they may struggle to feed effectively.

What to do

Try the strategies mentioned above as well as using upright positions, and/or trying to feed in a steamy bathroom. Steam can really help with congestion and may relieve a blocked nose.

Experimenting with cause and effect

Sometimes your baby may bite you just to see what happens when they do. 

What to do

It’s never too early to start teaching your little one ‘nursing manners’ so if they bite you during a feed, it’s ok to take them off your breast and explain that they've hurt you. 

If it’s tricky to detach your baby from your nipple, bring them in towards your breast, so their nose gets compressed, rather than pulling them away (which may well be what your instinct is to do.)

Bear in mind the suggestions above about keeping an eye on the flow, and your baby’s positioning to reduce the likelihood of a bite happening.

If your breast or nipple is damaged by a bite, please use moist wound healing techniques to help promote recovery. Do reach out to your IBCLC at any stage for more support.