Breastfeeding is a deeply personal and often beautiful experience between you and your baby. However, there can be challenges along the way, one of which is a nursing strike. I remember being utterly bereft when my son was around 10 months old when he refused to nurse for almost two whole days. The reason? He was so congested that he simply couldn't breathe through his nose whilst nursing. Each time he tried, he got more and more frustrated and my heart broke for us both.
I remember my mind racing:
"Is this how our breastfeeding journey will end?"
"How on earth do I make sure he is hydrated?"
and
"How do I get my son to sleep without the boob?"
If you’ve found yourself in this situation, you might be feeling worried, frustrated, or even rejected. It’s important to understand what a nursing strike is, why it happens, and how to navigate through it while taking care of both your baby and yourself.
What is a Nursing Strike?
A nursing strike is when your baby or toddler, who has been happily breastfeeding, suddenly refuses to nurse. This can be quite alarming, but it's typically temporary and can last from a few days to a week or more. It's different from self-weaning, which is a gradual process where a baby slowly loses interest in breastfeeding over time. Nursing strikes are abrupt and often indicate that something specific is bothering your baby.
Why Do Nursing Strikes Happen?
There are numerous reasons why a nursing strike might occur. Here are ten common ones:
1. Teething: Sore gums can make sucking painful for your baby.
2. Illness: A cold, ear infection, or sore throat can make breastfeeding uncomfortable.
3. Changes in Routine: New childcare arrangements or returning to work can disrupt your baby’s routine.
4. Distractions: As babies grow, they become more aware of their surroundings and might get easily distracted during feeding times.
5. Stress: Household changes or tension can affect your baby’s willingness to nurse.
6. Taste Changes: Changes in the taste of your milk due to your diet or hormonal changes (such as when your period returns), can make your baby hesitant to feed.
7. Overstimulation: An overstimulating environment can make it hard for your baby to settle and nurse.
8. Reaction to Vaccinations: Some babies may refuse to nurse after getting vaccinated due to discomfort.
9. Nipple Confusion: If your baby has been using bottles or pacifiers, they might develop a preference for them over the breast.
10. Physical Pain: Any pain your baby is experiencing, such as an injury or oral thrush, can make breastfeeding uncomfortable.
Feeding During a Nursing Strike
During a nursing strike, it’s crucial to ensure your baby continues to get the nutrition they need. Here are some tips:
- Express Milk: Pump your milk and offer it in a bottle or cup. This ensures your supply stays up and your baby continues to get the benefits of breast milk.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spend time holding your baby skin-to-skin. This can comfort them and encourage a return to breastfeeding.
- Different Positions: Try nursing in different positions to see if your baby prefers one over others.
- Offer the Breast Frequently: Even if your baby is refusing, continue to offer the breast regularly. They might decide to nurse when they are sleepy or relaxed.
- A Peaceful Environment: Create a calm, quiet environment to help your baby focus on nursing.
- Night Feeds: Babies might be more willing to nurse during the night or early morning when they are more relaxed.
Self-Care for Moms During a Nursing Strike
Experiencing a nursing strike can be stressful, so taking care of yourself is equally important.
- Rest: Get as much rest as you can. A lack of sleep can heighten stress and make the situation feel more overwhelming.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and eat balanced meals to keep your energy up.
- Support System: Lean on your support system. Talk to friends, family, or a lactation consultant about what you're going through.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to manage stress. This one is designed to support relaxation and help you fall asleep at night.
- Positive Affirmations: Remind yourself that a nursing strike is usually temporary and doesn’t mean your baby is rejecting you.
- Seek Professional Help: If the strike lasts more than a few days or you’re feeling overwhelmed, seek advice from a healthcare provider or lactation consultant.
Remember, a nursing strike doesn’t mean the end of your breastfeeding journey. With patience, understanding, and support, you and your baby can overcome this hurdle and continue your beautiful breastfeeding relationship (we did).
With love,
Danielle
❤️
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