Nipple Biting: Why Babies May Bite During Breastfeeding And How To Stop It

If you have ever wondered why babies nibble or bite while breastfeeding, you are not alone. It is a common concern for many nursing mothers, and in this blog, we will understand the reasons behind nipple biting and help you ease worries and find attributing solutions. 

5 Signs That Your Baby May Bite During Breastfeeding

• Teething

This is one of the most common reasons behind nipple biting. Babies might bite due to teething discomfort as the unique sensation of teeth coming through their gums can make them bite while nursing.

• Explorative Nature 

As your baby grows, it naturally enters an exploration phase. Typically, babies use their mouths to discover their surroundings. As a consequence of this behavior, they might bite to try out and experience different sensations and textures while breastfeeding.

• Babies Might Get Distracted 

At times, babies get distracted and this can lead to nipple biting during breastfeeding. If you are a mom, you will agree with the fact that babies are often more interested in their surroundings and they are always on the lookout for playful interactions rather than actually nursing or even eating their food. 

• Age

Another important reason for nipple biting is the age of your baby. Younger babies might bite out of teething discomfort, whereas if your baby is a bit older, it may bite due to its curiosity.

• Response To Stimuli

When you start introducing solid foods to your baby, you will have to transition to a new nursing routine. At times, it can trigger nipple-biting behavior in babies.

Home Remedies to Prevent Baby Bites During Breastfeeding

Check out these home remedies for baby bites during breastfeeding:

• You can gently apply a cold compress or a chilled washcloth to your baby's gums before breastfeeding. This will be helpful in soothing discomfort and your baby might not feel the urge to bite.

• Try offering teething toys to your baby before nursing. This can help satisfy their urge to bite and it can helpful in preventing breast-biting

• This is an amazing remedy to keep nipple biting during breastfeeding at bay.  Freeze breast milk into small popsicles and your baby can suck onto it before breastfeeding. This will provide relief to teething gums and provide nutrition to your kid as well.
• Try to gently massage your baby's gums with clean fingers or a soft silicone finger brush. This can help alleviate teething pain and boost relaxation before breastfeeding.  

• Always breastfeed your baby in a calm and comfortable environment. Keep any kind of distractions at a minimum. This can help with your baby’s biting tendencies.

There is no understating the fact that breastfeeding is a beautiful, and bonding experience between a mother and her baby. It doesn’t just offer nourishment but also emboldens an emotional connection. While nipple biting during breastfeeding can be an issue, especially during teething, understanding the reasons behind nipple biting and using measures like teething toys, breast milk popsicles, and maintaining a calm nursing environment can be of great help in promoting a positive breastfeeding journey. To help you make your breastfeeding experience a rewarding and fulfilling one, The Mom Store has come up with a curated range of nursing outfits and other feeding essentials. You can check out their website and choose products as per your liking. 

FAQs on Nipple Biting During Breastfeeding

Q. When do babies start biting nipples?

Babies usually start nipple biting when they are about 6 to 9 months old. This is around the same time when babies start their teething. This phase is often characterized by irritability and sensations of pain in babies. 

Q. How do I stop my baby from biting my nipples while breastfeeding?

You can check out the home remedies for baby bites while breastfeeding in this blog. To that end, you can try out the following things:

• Always breastfeed in a comfortable and calm environment. 
• Give teething toys to your baby before breastfeeding.
• Give your little bundle of joy a warm bath before breastfeeding to relax them completely. 

Q. Is it common for babies to bite nipples?

Yes. It is very common for babies to bite off nipples during breastfeeding.