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Teething is a challenging phase for babies, often causing gum pain and irritability. Parents look for gentle ways to comfort their little ones during this time.
Breastfeeding can soothe teething discomfort by easing gum pressure and calming babies through close contact. Its natural comfort makes it a go-to solution for many parents.
Additionally, massage can help relieve teething pain. Pink Orchid specializes in Baby Massage Techniques To Soothe Teething Gums, offering parents a gentle and effective way to ease their
Table Of Content
Does Breastfeeding Soothe Teething Baby? Know The Benefits
Breastfeeding is often a go-to solution for soothing teething babies, offering both comfort and health benefits. Let's explore how breastfeeding helps during this crucial developmental phase.
1. Breastfeeding Helps Relieve Teething Discomfort
Breastfeeding can provide significant relief for a teething baby. The sucking motion during breastfeeding creates a soothing effect, helping to ease gum discomfort. Additionally, breast milk's natural warmth and texture can offer a calming sensation to sore gums.
2. Natural Pain Relief Through Breast Milk
Breast milk contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce swelling in the gums. The act of breastfeeding releases endorphins in babies, which act as natural painkillers, providing comfort during the teething phase.
3. Emotional Comfort And Bonding
Teething can make babies irritable and restless. Breastfeeding offers not only physical relief but also emotional comfort. It strengthens the bond between the baby and the mother, helping to soothe the baby during this challenging period.
4. Supports Overall Immunity
Breast milk is rich in antibodies and nutrients that boost a baby's immunity. During teething, when babies are prone to putting objects in their mouths, breastfeeding can provide additional protection against infections, promoting overall health and well-being.
Understanding the benefits of breastfeeding during teething can make this phase smoother for both mother and baby. It not only addresses discomfort but also strengthens the baby's health and emotional security.
10 Tips To Soothe Baby's Sore Gums
Sore gums during teething can make babies uncomfortable and irritable. Knowing how to soothe their pain can make a big difference for both baby and parents. Here are 10 effective tips to help.
1. Offer A Cold Washcloth
Soak a clean washcloth in cold water, wring it out, and let your baby chew on it. The cold temperature helps numb the gums, reducing inflammation and discomfort.
2. Use Teething Rings
Provide your baby with a soft, chilled teething ring. Avoid freezing it, as overly hard surfaces can hurt delicate gums. Opt for BPA-free options for safety.
3. Massage The Gums
Gently massage your baby’s gums using a clean finger. Apply slight pressure to ease pain and improve blood circulation, which can reduce swelling.
4. Breastfeeding Comfort
Breastfeeding can be soothing for teething babies. The act of nursing provides emotional comfort while also relieving gum pain through sucking.
5. Try Chilled Fruits Or Vegetables
For babies who are eating solids, offer chilled cucumber slices or frozen fruit pieces in a mesh feeder. These provide a cooling effect and something to chew on.
6. Use Teething Gels Sparingly
Consult your pediatrician before using teething gels. If approved, apply a small amount to your baby’s gums for temporary relief from soreness.
7. Provide Silicone Teething Toys
Silicone teething toys are safe and soft for babies to chew on. Look for textured designs that massage gums while offering relief.
8. Offer A Frozen Spoon
Place a spoon in the freezer for a few minutes and let your baby hold and chew on it. The cold metal provides a soothing effect on swollen gums.
9. Keep Baby Distracted
Engage your baby in playful activities to divert their attention from the pain. Songs, games, and cuddles can offer emotional relief.
10. Maintain Oral Hygiene
Use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean your baby's gums after each feeding. Keeping the mouth clean can prevent irritation and promote faster healing.
According to Healthline, now is the right time to invest in some good teething toys. Some are filled with liquid and meant to be put in the freezer so the cold can soothe the gums.
However, it is safer to just refrigerate these and to make sure the liquid in them is nontoxic. Or even safer, just stick to solid rubber teething rings.
Can I Continue Breastfeeding When My Baby Starts Teething?
Breastfeeding during your baby’s teething phase can raise questions for many parents. The short answer is no, you don’t need to stop breastfeeding when your baby starts teething. In fact, breastfeeding can be a source of comfort for teething babies, soothing them during this challenging time.
However, adjustments during the breastfeeding routine may help both you and your baby navigate this phase more comfortably.
Before Nursing
Before nursing, you can ease your baby’s teething discomfort by gently massaging their gums with a clean finger or offering a chilled (not frozen) teething ring.
This can help soothe their sore gums and reduce the chances of them biting during breastfeeding. Make sure your baby is relaxed before starting the session to create a positive nursing experience.
During Nursing
It’s common for babies to occasionally bite while teething, especially if their gums are sore. If this happens, calmly and firmly let them know it hurts and briefly stop nursing.
Avoid yelling or reacting dramatically, as this may confuse or frighten your baby. Maintaining proper latch techniques can also reduce the likelihood of biting.
After Nursing
After feeding, gently clean your baby’s gums or emerging teeth using a clean, damp cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for infants.
This helps maintain oral hygiene, especially as their teeth begin to emerge. Continue to monitor their teething progress and adjust your routine as needed to ensure a comfortable experience for both you and your baby.
Teething Baby Nursing All Night: Is It Normal?
Teething often disrupts a baby’s sleep patterns, leaving many parents wondering if constant nighttime nursing is normal. Let’s explore this phase and what it means for your baby.
1. Increased Nursing For Comfort Is Normal
Yes, it’s normal for teething babies to nurse more frequently at night. Nursing provides comfort and relief from gum pain caused by teething. The close contact with the mother also offers emotional reassurance, which helps soothe the baby during discomfort.
2. Teething Can Disrupt Sleep
Teething pain often intensifies at night when there are fewer distractions. This can make babies wake up more frequently and seek comfort through nursing. While exhausting, this phase is temporary and usually resolves as the teeth erupt.
3. Nursing Releases Natural Painkillers
The act of nursing stimulates the release of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers. These help alleviate the baby’s teething discomfort and encourage them to fall back asleep more easily.
4. It’s A Way To Reconnect
For teething babies, nighttime nursing is not just about hunger. It’s also a way to reconnect with their mother and feel secure, especially during a period of heightened irritability.
5. Tips To Manage Frequent Nursing
While nighttime nursing is normal, you can manage it by ensuring your baby gets plenty of teething relief during the day. Offer cold teething toys, massage their gums, or use teething gels (if recommended by a pediatrician). A calming bedtime routine can also help reduce the need for frequent nursing at night.
Nighttime nursing during teething is a natural response to your baby’s discomfort and need for comfort. With time, this phase will pass, and your baby’s sleep patterns will return to normal.
Should I Stop Breastfeeding When My Baby Starts Teething?
It’s common for parents to wonder if breastfeeding should stop when their baby begins teething. The answer is generally no, and here’s why continuing breastfeeding is still beneficial during this phase.
1. Breastfeeding Provides Comfort During Teething
Teething can be painful, and breastfeeding offers comfort. The act of sucking helps relieve pressure on the gums, providing some soothing relief to your baby. Additionally, the emotional closeness during breastfeeding can help calm a teething baby.
2. Teething Doesn’t Affect Milk Supply
Teething doesn’t affect your milk supply, so there’s no need to stop breastfeeding for that reason. Your baby still needs the essential nutrients and immune support breast milk provides, especially during this developmental phase.
3. Temporary Biting Is Manageable
Some babies may bite while breastfeeding during teething, but this behavior is usually temporary. If your baby bites, calmly remove them from the breast and offer teething toys before or after breastfeeding. With consistent guidance, they’ll learn not to bite during nursing.
4. Teething Relief Through Nursing
Breastfeeding not only nourishes but also releases natural painkillers in the form of endorphins, which can help ease your baby’s discomfort. It’s a natural, comforting way to manage teething pain.
5. Emotional Comfort And Bonding
Breastfeeding offers emotional comfort to a teething baby, providing a sense of security and reassurance. The close physical contact strengthens the bond between you and your baby, which is essential for their emotional development.
Stopping breastfeeding when your baby starts teething is not necessary. In fact, continuing to breastfeed can provide both physical and emotional relief, making this phase more manageable for both of you.
Teething & Breastfeeding Refusal: What To Do?
It’s not uncommon for babies to refuse breastfeeding during the teething phase, and this can be concerning for parents. Understanding why this happens and how to manage it can help ease the situation.
1. Teething Discomfort May Cause Fussiness
Teething can make babies irritable and uncomfortable, leading to breastfeeding refusal. The pressure on their gums may make it difficult for them to latch properly, or they may associate nursing with additional discomfort.
2. Try Different Feeding Positions
If your baby is refusing the breast, experiment with different breastfeeding positions. Sometimes, changing the angle or the way the baby is held can reduce discomfort and make nursing more comfortable for them.
3. Offer Breastfeeding When Baby Is Calm
Try to offer the breast when your baby is calm and relaxed. Teething can make babies fussy, so waiting for a moment when they are less agitated might increase the likelihood of successful nursing.
4. Provide Teething Relief Before Feeding
Offer teething relief, such as a chilled teething ring or a cold washcloth, before attempting to breastfeed. This can help soothe your baby’s gums and make nursing more comfortable.
5. Use Breastfeeding As Comfort
Breastfeeding may be rejected initially, but offering it for comfort, not just nourishment, can help. Sometimes, babies refuse because they’re distracted by the pain, but gentle nursing for emotional comfort can help them feel more secure and willing to latch.
6. Keep a Calm And Patient Approach
Teething refusal is usually a temporary phase. Be patient and avoid forcing your baby to breastfeed. Keeping a calm, reassuring demeanor will help your baby feel safe and eventually more willing to nurse.
7. Ensure Sufficient Hydration And Nutrition
If your baby is refusing to breastfeed, make sure they’re still getting enough nutrition and hydration. You can offer breast milk through a bottle or spoon-feeding, but always try to return to breastfeeding when possible.
Teething and breastfeeding refusal can be challenging, but with patience and understanding, it’s usually a phase that will pass. Continue offering comfort and teething relief, and your baby will likely return to nursing once their discomfort subsides.
Some Proven Tips To Train Your Baby To Not Bite While Feeding
It’s common for babies to bite during breastfeeding, especially when they start teething. However, there are several proven strategies you can use to discourage this behavior and help your baby learn proper feeding habits.
1. Stay Calm And React Immediately
If your baby bites, respond immediately by gently removing them from the breast and saying "no" in a calm but firm voice. This will help them associate biting with the interruption of feeding, signaling that it’s not acceptable.
2. Offer Teething Relief Before Feeding
To minimize the chances of biting, offer teething relief before breastfeeding. A chilled teething ring or a cold washcloth can help soothe your baby’s gums, reducing the urge to bite while nursing.
3. Monitor Baby’s Cues
Pay attention to your baby’s behavior during breastfeeding. If they start to become restless or distracted, it may be a sign that they’re ready to bite. Gently guide them back to a comfortable position or offer a break to avoid the biting reflex.
4. Encourage Proper Latching
Ensure that your baby is latching correctly. A shallow latch can lead to discomfort, which might cause them to bite. Make sure your baby’s mouth is wide open when they latch, and their lips should be flanged out. This reduces the likelihood of biting.
5. Reinforce Positive Behavior
When your baby nurses without biting, praise and encourage them. Positive reinforcement helps them understand the behavior you want to see and encourages them to continue nursing gently.
6. Offer A Distraction-Free Environment
Create a calm and distraction-free environment for feeding. When babies are distracted, they are more likely to become frustrated or bite. A quiet space can help your baby focus on nursing without unnecessary interruptions.
7. Gradually Shorten Feeding Sessions
If your baby tends to bite at the end of a feeding session, try shortening the time they spend at the breast. By reducing the time spent nursing, you can help prevent them from becoming overly distracted or uncomfortable.
Training your baby to stop biting while breastfeeding requires patience and consistency. By using these strategies, you can help your baby learn proper feeding behavior while also managing their teething discomfort.
Pink Orchid: Baby Massage Techniques To Soothe Teething Gums
Pink Orchid offers gentle baby massage techniques to soothe teething gums. One effective method is gently massaging the baby’s jaw and gums with soft, circular motions using your fingertips. This light pressure can help relieve gum pain and reduce swelling.
Massaging your baby’s hands and feet can also provide comfort. These areas have pressure points that help calm the body, including the gums, promoting relaxation and easing teething discomfort.
Incorporating massage into a bedtime routine can enhance its calming effects. Regular massages not only soothe the gums but also help your baby feel secure, making sleep more restful during the teething phase.
FAQs
1. Can Breastfeeding Help Teething Pain?
Yes, breastfeeding can help soothe teething pain as the act of sucking provides comfort and relief.
2. Do Babies Comfort Nurse When Teething?
Yes, many babies comfort nurses when teething as it provides emotional comfort and relief from discomfort.
3. Does Breastfeeding Provide Pain Relief?
Yes, breastfeeding can provide pain relief by calming babies and offering comfort during teething.
4. What Is The Best Way To Ease Teething Pain In Babies?
Teething rings, cold washcloths, and gentle gum massage are great ways to ease teething pain in babies.
5. Do Babies Reject Breast Milk While Teething?
Some babies may temporarily reject breast milk during teething due to gum sensitivity, but this usually passes.
6. How To Use Breastmilk For Teething?
Breast milk can be applied to the baby's gums or used in a chilled teething ring for added relief.
7. Do Nipples Hurt When Baby Is Teething?
Yes, babies may bite or gnaw on nipples while teething, which can cause discomfort for the mother.
8. Why Are Babies So Comforted By Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding provides both nourishment and emotional comfort, helping babies feel secure and soothed during teething.
9. Do Babies Poop More When Teething?
Some babies experience changes in bowel movements, including more frequent pooping, during teething.
10. Does Breast Milk Soothe Teething At Night?
Yes, breast milk can help soothe teething pain at night by providing comfort and promoting relaxation.
11. What Is A Natural Pain Killer For Babies?
Natural pain relievers like chilled teething rings, chamomile tea, or a gentle gum massage can help ease teething pain.
12. When Is Breastfeeding Most Painful?
Breastfeeding may be most painful during the early days of nursing or when a baby is teething and bites the nipple.
Conclusion
In conclusion, breastfeeding offers natural relief for teething babies by easing gum discomfort and providing comfort through close contact.
The act of nursing not only soothes pain but also strengthens the emotional bond between mother and baby, promoting a sense of security.
For additional relief, parents can incorporate gentle baby massage techniques to further comfort their little one during this challenging phase.
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