How to Cope with a Baby Who Won't Nurse

No matter how badly you want to breastfeed, if your baby won't nurse, you may be forced to switch to formula. You know your baby is getting enough to eat if he has at least six wet and three dirty diapers each day, is gaining weight and seems satisfied at feeding time. If you have difficulty getting your baby to nurse or suspect he is not getting enough to eat, you can use several techniques that may encourage him to nurse.

Instructions

    • 1

      Express some milk before you try to breastfeed your infant. When your breasts are full of milk, your infant may have difficulty latching on. Expressing some milk softens the breast, making it easier for your baby to nurse.

    • 2

      Watch for signs that your baby is ready to nurse. If you wait until she starts fussing or crying, she may already be too frustrated to settle down and eat. Signs your baby is ready to nurse are rooting toward the breast, making licking or sucking motions, putting her hand to her face and bobbing her head.

    • 3

      Switch to a different position while nursing. If you normally hold your baby and nurse while sitting, try laying on your side. Changing positions may make it easier for your infant to latch on comfortably.

    • 4

      Uncover your baby at feeding time. A warm, bundled up baby may drift off to sleep before getting enough to eat. You may want to open your shirt as well, as skin-to-skin contact can stimulate your baby and encourage her to nurse.

    • 5

      Dedicate a few days to nursing. While you probably want your baby on some sort of schedule, if he won't nurse, you may want to put those efforts on hold. Instead, spend a few days encouraging your baby to nurse every time he acts interested. Make a conscious effort to relax and spend plenty of time just holding him, providing plenty of contact. Once he begins to nurse more readily, you can encourage a more regular schedule.

    • 6

      Offer formula. Commercially available formulas are safe, nutritious and provide everything your baby needs to thrive. Don't consider the switch to formula a failure; switching to a bottle can make mealtimes much more pleasant for both mother and baby.

    • 7

      Cuddle your baby. Switching to formula will not stop you from bonding with your baby. Sit down with your baby, hold her close and cuddle her at mealtimes. Formula feeding can be just as intimate and fulfilling as breastfeeding.

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