Remedies for a Baby Who Bites While Nursing

Breastfeeding is not only a way to ensure your baby gets proper nutrition, it's also an effective way for mother and baby to bond. But you might be wondering what happens when teeth begin to emerge through your baby's formerly harmless gums. You are likely to be startled at least once by your little one's teeth clamping down on your nipple, but a few simple remedies can help cut down on future bites.

  1. Watch for Cues

    • Your baby is unlikely to bite during nursing if he is hungry; he's most likely focused on getting his meal. Plus, if he is latched on correctly, your nipple is too far in his mouth for him to bite you. A bite is more likely to happen after he is satisfied and begins to pull away from your breast. When you notice that he has finished nursing and is beginning to try to play, gently pull away before he has a chance to bite.

    Offer an Alternative

    • La Leche League International recommends telling your baby, no matter her age, that "Mommy is not for biting." Even if she can't yet understand what you're saying, she can pick up on your tone. Then you can offer her a teething ring and let her know that it is for biting. Positive reinforcement may help as well; praise your baby when she nurses and pulls away without biting.

    Ease Gum Pain

    • Teething can be painful. Babies tend to put their mouths on just about anything to try to relieve the pressure of a tooth popping through the gums. Before nursing your baby, give him something cold and hard to chew on. This helps soothe his gums and make it less likely that he'll bite you in response to teething pain.

    Break the Suction

    • If your baby continues to bite you, slip your finger into the corner of her mouth to break the suction. Even if it hurts, try to remain calm so you don't scare her. Keep your finger between her teeth as you pull her away from you; pulling her straight away could cause nipple pain. This also helps her learn that if she bites, the milk goes away.

    Relieve Cold Symptoms

    • According to LLLI, your baby may try to bite if he is experiencing discomfort brought on by a cold. If that's the case, be sure to hold your little one upright so he can breathe easier. You can also try nursing him while walking. Ask your pediatrician for advice on how to ease his cold symptoms.

    Understand the Behavior

    • Babies use their mouths not only to eat but to explore whatever is available to them. As AskDrSears.com points out, nothing is more available to a nursing baby than her mother's skin. Your baby doesn't mean any harm when she bites, no matter how much it hurts. It's up to you to teach her that your are not a proper teething toy.

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