Biting While Nursing and Starting to Refuse the Breast?

I would absolutely go to a La Leche League meeting, and possibly see a Lactation counselor. It's just good to get some hands-on face-to-face support.

http://www.llli.org/
http://www.ilca.org/falc.html

The most likely time for biting to occur is during the first year, usually around the time when a child is teething. Just about all teething toddlers will experience a degree of discomfort when teething begins and for some it can be quite a painful process. Just about all babies try to alleviate the discomfort by chewing down on something; your nipple is no exception. The first instinct of many nursing mothers is to pull the child away, however you'll ease the pain on your nipple if you pull your child close to you and gently insert your finder into the corner of your baby's mouth to release the suction. Say 'No' to your baby in a firm but calm voice and then - if not too painful - continue feeding. If your child bites again, repeat the procedure but suspend feeding for several minutes. Just saying 'no' is usually enough to stop most babies from biting again. Between feeds, give your child a carrot or teething ring to chew down on. Patting your nipple dry and applying modified lanolin will help sooth your sore nipple.

Some babies let their mothers know they've had enough milk by biting.
Your child may bite simply to get your attention. Babies want eye contact when they are at the breast and will get upset if they notice mother's attention is elsewhere. They may feel especially resentful if mother is talking to others; many babies instinctively know that breastfeeding is their special time spent with mother. Biting can usually be eliminated if mother gives her full attention to her child during breastfeeding. Looking at her child also allows a mother to recognise when her child may be about to bite her, thus giving her time to take avoiding action.

Some children also bite if they slip or feel they are about to. Always make sure your baby feels comfortable and secure. Some children also bite when they fall asleep at the breast. If you find this is happening, simply finish feeding before your child falls asleep.

Try giving him natural teething tablet 5 to 10 minutes before nursing. Or a dose of motrin (which takes longer to be active) If he is biting it is probably because his gums hurt. I would think too to continue to give him a sippy if he will drink out of that or try strawed cups.

He should be eating two or three solid meals a day and have like 36 oz or more a day of fluids I believe, if you are concerned call your Pediatrician.

I think it may be partly teething. I agree that you should not give up. Keep offering him the breast, and pump when he won't nurse so your supply keeps up, so that if he declines the breast all together, you can still give him breastmilk in a cup. I've heard that some children do give up breastfeeding early. Good luck.

Sounds like mostly teething. Are you getting enough milk when you pump? Biting and nursing shorter periods can be a lack of enough milk, but also teething, or just plain boredom. It's very hard to get some kids to nurse with all the world around them to see. I have one that just weaned because she couldn't keep up with what her brothers were doing while she nursed. She's much happier with formula in a sippy cup sitting on the floor. :( Each kid is different. I always flicked the cheek when the bit. It generally passes in a day. Two max. GL!

This definitely sounds like a reaction to teething. I would definitely allow him to drink from the sippy if he wants, but there is no need to switch to formula. I went through this with my 3rd child and on and off with my 4th (will be 9 months on the 15th). Their gums are extra sensitive during teething and the hardness of the sippy compared to the softness of he breast may be working better for him at the moment. Don't give up!

Make it a GREAT week!

S.