As a new parent, one of your main responsibilities is to ensure that your newborn is getting all the nutrients they need, and that includes consuming breast milk at regular intervals. However, there may come a time when your baby suddenly refuses to nurse, which can be alarming. But don’t panic! This phenomenon, known as a milk strike or breastfeeding strike, is not uncommon and can be resolved with a little patience and some strategies. In this article, we will discuss what you can do when your baby refuses to drink milk, so you can continue on your breastfeeding journey with confidence.
What Is A Milk Strike?
A milk strike occurs when a typically breastfeeding baby suddenly refuses to nurse. This can last for just one breastfeeding session or extend to a couple of days. It’s important to remember that there is always a reason behind your baby’s strike, whether it’s due to discomfort from illness or being stressed and distracted by their environment. The good news is that there are ways to address the situation and help your baby resume breastfeeding.
Ways To Get Your Baby To Nurse Again
1. Keep Trying
If your baby has been on a milk strike for only a day or so, don’t panic and stick with your usual breastfeeding routine. Offer your breast to your baby at feeding times as if nothing has changed. However, if this becomes stressful for both you and your baby, it’s okay to take a break and try again at the next feeding. You may also find success in breastfeeding your baby when they are sleepy, so try to catch them when they are falling asleep or just waking up. By sticking to your regular nursing routine, your baby is likely to resume breastfeeding within a day or two.
2. Find A Calm Breastfeeding Spot
Sometimes babies become hesitant to nurse due to distractions from their environment, such as loud noises. This can overwhelm them and make it difficult for them to focus on breastfeeding. In such cases, it’s helpful to change locations and find a quieter, calm spot in your house where you and your baby can relax. Remember that babies can pick up on their mother’s stress levels, so if you’re feeling anxious, it’s important to find a spot where you feel safe and comfortable to breastfeed your baby in peace. Creating a calming environment may help your baby transition out of their milk strike.
3. Pump
When all else fails, pumping can be a helpful option. Pumping ensures that you are maintaining your milk supply even if your baby is not nursing directly from you. This sends a signal to your body to continue producing milk, preventing a decrease in your milk supply. Moreover, pumping allows your baby to still receive the breast milk they need, even if it’s through a bottle. It can be a temporary solution until your baby is ready to nurse again.
4. Try New Positions
As your baby grows, they may start feeling uncomfortable in certain breastfeeding positions. So, it may be worth trying new positions to resolve the milk strike. It can be challenging to predict which position your baby may prefer, so be open to trying different positions until you find one that your baby is comfortable with. Even a small change in positioning can make a big difference and encourage your baby to start breastfeeding again.
5. Lots Of Cuddles
Sometimes, all your baby needs is some skin-to-skin contact and cuddles to encourage them to breastfeed again. Babies thrive on love, attention, and care. Building a strong bond with your baby through cuddles and physical closeness can help them feel safe and trusting, which may help resolve the milk strike. So, if your little one is on a milk strike, show them some extra love and shower them
