What to do when my baby refuses to nurse?

By Angelica Flores 

Gold Mamas co-founder

Breastfeeding is challenging, especially when your baby refuses to nurse. If you’re feeling stressed, remember that you and your baby are new to this experience and as everything new skill sometimes takes time, patience and practice to master. Here's a guide to help you through this difficult phase with tips to encourage your baby back to the breast.

The Basics: Feed the Baby, Maintain Milk Supply

Feed the baby: Whether using expressed milk, donor milk, or formula, ensure your baby is getting enough to eat.

Maintain your milk supply: Express milk regularly to keep your supply up while your baby learns to latch.

Suggestions for a Typical Nursing Session

Positioning matters: Try a cross-cradle hold or a modified football hold.

Short sessions: Limit attempts to 10 minutes. If your baby becomes upset, take a break.

Stay calm: Frustration can make latching harder. If things aren’t going well, soothe your baby and try again later.

Coaxing Baby to the Breast

Skin-to-skin contact: Spend lots of time with your baby on your chest, allowing them to get comfortable with being near the breast.

Offer often, but casually: Present the breast without pressure. Let your baby decide when to try.

Comfort nursing: Offer the breast when your baby is sleepy or just waking up, even if it’s only for comfort.

“Instant Reward” Techniques

Hand express a little milk before latching to give your baby an immediate taste.

Use a syringe or dropper: Drip milk onto your nipple to encourage sucking.

Nipple shields: These can sometimes help babies transition to the breast.

Working with a Baby Who Actively Resists Nursing

Rule out physical issues: Reflux, birth injuries, or other conditions may be causing discomfort.

Be patient: Some babies take time to get comfortable with breastfeeding. Keep things low-pressure and offer plenty of snuggles.

Bottles: Yes or No?

Balance is key: While avoiding bottles can help prevent nipple confusion, your baby’s need to eat and your mental well-being are most important.

Alternative feeding methods: Consider using a spoon, syringe, or nursing supplementer if bottles aren’t working for you.

Dealing with a Nursing Strike

Identify the cause: A strike might happen due to teething, illness, or a change in routine.

Sleepy nursing: Babies are often more willing to nurse when drowsy.

Express milk: Keep your supply steady until your baby resumes regular nursing.

Key Takeaways

Feed the baby and ensure proper nutrition.

Keep your milk supply up by expressing milk frequently.

Encourage, don’t force: Gently coax your baby to the breast without pressure.

Skin-to-skin time is invaluable.

Stay patient: Most babies will return to the breast with time and persistence.

Breastfeeding isn’t always easy, but with love, patience, and support, you can get through this challenging period. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or a supportive friend—you don’t have to do this alone!

Your breastfeeding journey is worth every minute!