Breastfeeding Issues: Nursing Strikes

First of all, you need to understand that a nursing strike is not necessarily a sign that your baby is ready to wean.

This breastfeeding issue is often triggered when a baby is hurt or scared while nursing. Subsequently, the baby refuses to breastfeed. Of course, the baby is still hungry, so he becomes progressively angrier as the hours pass. The situation is hard on you because in addition to a very cranky baby, you have to deal with engorged breasts. A frustrating breastfeeding issue, nursing strikes can last for several days.

A good solution to this breastfeeding issue is to coax your baby to sleep in your arms. Rock, cuddle, pace…whatever works! Once your baby has relaxed into sleep, carefully ease your nipple into his mouth and tickle his cheek a little to urge him to suck. Don't let go of him, and keep your breast within his easy reach.

If all goes well, when the baby wakes up, he'll already be happily nursing, and his earlier fear and/or anger will be soothed.