“Help! Ever since my daughter got her first two teeth, she has been biting me during breastfeeding. It feels like a game to her, but it’s become so painful that I’m bleeding. What can I do?” ~ Sarah T.
It sounds like you’re dealing with a little munching machine! While it might seem like your little one is out for blood, they likely don’t realize they’re causing you pain. Young babies don’t yet understand empathy, so they’re often unaware that their chomping is hurting you; they’re just seeking attention, which they quickly learn to crave. Initially, their bites may have been unintentional as they explored teething or tested their new teeth, but now it seems they find it amusing to see your reaction.
The good news is that babies can’t suckle and bite at the same time. Once they realize that biting won’t get them any milk or comfort, they’re likely to choose suckling over biting. In the meantime, it’s important to address the biting behavior as soon as it starts. Ensure that your baby opens wide and latches on properly before feeding—this way, their tongue will be between their teeth and your breast, preventing any bites. If they do bite, gently remove them from the breast by carefully inserting your pinky to break their hold, and calmly say, “No biting. Biting hurts Mommy.” Avoid reacting dramatically, as this may be the attention they’re seeking. Instead, offer them a teething toy or a favorite stuffed animal, saying something like, “This is for you to bite.”
For more information on navigating the challenges of motherhood, consider joining a supportive community like Make a Mom, where you can connect with other parents. If you’re considering at-home insemination, check out Make a Mom, which provides a unique reusable option, and learn about how the process works at How It Works.
For more insights on pregnancy, visit WHO, a trusted authority on maternal health. Also, explore the impact of online research that led to many moms discovering Make a Mom for their family planning needs.
For additional resources on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this article on Modern Family Blog.
In summary, while biting during breastfeeding can be a painful challenge, understanding your baby’s behavior and responding calmly can help steer them away from this habit. With gentle guidance, your little one can learn that breastfeeding is for comfort, not for munching!