baby biting - what to do when your nursing baby bites

Why do babies bite? Nursing babies typically bite for one of several reasons. They could be bored with nursing, or they could fall asleep and when they startle and wake up they may bite. One common reason for biting is teething.

Some babies may bite to tell you to pay attention to them. If you've gotten into the habit of always doing something else while nursing, your baby may miss your attention. Look her in the eyes when you breastfeed and talk to her if you sense this is the case.

When a baby bites you, it can be very painful, but remember that your baby probably doesn't mean to hurt you, especially if she's young or this is the first time it has happened. It can be scary if you react strongly or scream. It's important not to scare the baby because some sensitive babies will go on a breastfeeding strike. This could lead to engorgement and/or breast infection. Sometimes the baby may bite again to see if mom reacts again, the baby is curious because of the reaction she is getting. So try to play it cool.

You should, however, tell the baby that mom is not for biting. Even a preverbal baby can understand a frown and a disapproving tone of voice. It may also help to distract baby with something to bite - use whatever you would use for her teething discomfort. For instance, a cold teething toy, a cold damp washcloth, soft baby spoon, or a toothbrush (hold her to supervise so she doesn't gag herself). If she's old enough, you may try apple slices or frozen bagels.

Remember that a baby that is actively nursing cannot bite. If she were to bite while she was actually nursing, she would have to bite through her own tongue. Babies usually bite when they're finished nursing. When baby is done, she may not know how to tell you she's finished. She may pull away or move the breast out of her mouth roughly, injuring your breast tissue. If your baby does this, you may need to be proactive in ending the nursing session.

To keep her from biting you, put your finger in her mouth gently to break the suction. Move your nipple away from her. Avoid pulling away from her quickly as this could be painful. It's not always easy to remember to do this, but if your baby starts clamping down on your breast, quickly but gently bring her IN close to your breast. This will block her nose and cause her to open her mouth quickly. It's a gentle negative reinforcement as well.

Some older babies become determined biters. If you're in this situation, you need some support. Ask other Moms who have experienced this what they did to solve the problem. You might want to attend a La Leche League meeting and ask there. Be extra vigilant when your baby is nursing. You might notice that she gets a particular look right before she bites. Be quick to act if you notice this. Try the "smush" technique described earlier.

A determined biter may very well be doing it on purpose. You may want to end the nursing session immediately to send the message that biting is unacceptable. If that's not enough, try putting her down and walking away for a minute.

To heal your nipple after a bite, express a couple drops of breastmilk and apply to the sore area, or use a small dab of nipple healing cream.