As a new mom, breastfeeding can already be a daunting task. However, when your baby starts teething, it can add another layer of complexity to the experience. Teething can cause discomfort and pain for your little one, which can make them fussy and irritable during feeding times. As a result, breastfeeding a teething baby can feel overwhelming and challenging.
But don’t worry! With some tips and tricks, you can make the experience much more manageable. In this how-to guide, we will provide you with practical advice on how to breastfeed a teething baby and alleviate their discomfort. From pain relief techniques to distraction methods, we’ve got you covered!
Understanding the Teething Process
The first step in making breastfeeding easier for both you and your baby is to understand the teething process. Typically, babies start teething between 4-6 months of age. However, every child is different, and some may begin earlier or later than others.
The teething process involves the emergence of your baby’s teeth through their gums. This process can be painful for your little one and cause discomfort during feeding times. The pressure from sucking can irritate their gums further and make feeding more challenging.
It’s essential to note that not all babies experience the same level of discomfort during teething. Some babies may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience significant pain and fussiness.
Tips for Breastfeeding a Teething Baby
Now that you understand the basics of teething let’s dive into some practical tips on how to breastfeed a teething baby:
1. Offer Pain Relief Techniques Before Feeding
If your baby is experiencing significant discomfort during feeding times due to teething pain, consider offering them pain relief techniques before breastfeeding. You can try using a teething ring or massaging their gums with a clean finger to alleviate their discomfort. This will make it easier for your baby to focus on feeding and reduce their fussiness.
2. Use Soothing Nipple Cream
Teething can cause your baby to become fussy and irritable during feeding times, which can lead to increased sucking and biting on your nipples. This can cause soreness and discomfort for you as well.
To alleviate this, consider using a soothing nipple cream that contains lanolin or coconut oil. These creams can help moisturize your nipples and reduce soreness caused by frequent feeding and biting.
3. Offer Distractions During Feeding
During the teething phase, your baby may become easily distracted during feeding times due to discomfort or pain. To help them stay focused on feeding, consider offering them distractions such as toys or books during the process.
You can also try singing or talking to your baby to keep them engaged while they feed. This will make the experience more enjoyable for both you and your little one.
4. Stick to a Feeding Schedule
During the teething phase, your baby may experience sleep regression, which can make it challenging to stick to a consistent feeding schedule. However, it’s essential to maintain a routine as much as possible.
A consistent feeding schedule will help your baby get used to the process and anticipate when they will be fed. This can reduce fussiness and make breastfeeding a smoother experience overall.
5. Consider Weaning Options
If you find that breastfeeding is becoming too challenging during the teething phase, consider exploring weaning options with your pediatrician.
Your doctor can provide you with advice on how to transition your baby to solid foods and other feeding methods. This can alleviate the discomfort caused by teething and make feeding times more manageable for you and your little one.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding a teething baby can be a challenging experience, but it doesn’t have to be. With these tips and tricks, you can make the process much more manageable for both you and your little one.
Remember to offer pain relief techniques before feeding, use soothing nipple cream, offer distractions during feeding, stick to a feeding schedule, and consider weaning options if necessary.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your baby is well-fed and comfortable during the teething phase while also reducing any discomfort or pain you may experience during breastfeeding. Remember to stay patient and take care of yourself during this time!