#asktheexpert my baby has not feeding milk rice 😭

Question

#asktheexpert  my baby has not feeding milk rice 😭

Accepted Answer

consult your doctor

Accepted Answer

visit pediatrician for discussion

Accepted Answer

If your baby is not feeding well or is refusing milk, it can be concerning. Several factors could cause a baby to refuse feeding, and understanding the possible reasons can help address the issue effectively.

### Possible Reasons Why a Baby May Refuse Milk:

1. **Teething:** Teething can make a baby's gums sore and sensitive, making it uncomfortable for them to suck during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.

2. **Illness or Discomfort:** If your baby is feeling unwell due to a cold, ear infection, sore throat, or other illness, they may not feed well. Congestion can make it difficult for a baby to breathe while feeding, causing them to refuse milk.

3. **Reflux or Digestive Issues:** Babies with gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or other digestive discomforts might refuse to feed because feeding can cause pain or discomfort. They may also pull away or cry during feeding.

4. **Change in Taste:** A change in the taste of breast milk (due to something the mother ate, medication, or hormonal changes) or formula (due to a different brand or expired formula) could cause a baby to refuse milk.

5. **Feeding Aversion:** Sometimes, babies develop a feeding aversion due to a stressful feeding experience, such as being forced to feed, experiencing pain during feeding, or negative associations with feeding.

6. **Overfeeding or Not Hungry:** If the baby is not hungry, perhaps due to having been fed recently or consuming solid foods, they may refuse milk.

7. **Distraction:** As babies get older, they become more aware of their surroundings. A noisy or stimulating environment might distract them from feeding.

8. **Developmental Changes:** Around 4 to 6 months, babies start to explore their environment more and might be too distracted to feed well. This is usually temporary.

### What You Can Do:

1. **Check for Signs of Illness:** Observe your baby for signs of illness, such as fever, cough, congestion, or ear pulling. If you suspect an illness, consult your pediatrician.

2. **Create a Calm Feeding Environment:** Try feeding your baby in a quiet, dimly lit room with minimal distractions. This can help them focus on feeding.

3. **Adjust Feeding Position:** Changing the feeding position might make feeding more comfortable, especially if your baby is teething or has reflux. Holding your baby more upright or trying different breastfeeding positions can help.

4. **Offer Small, Frequent Feedings:** If your baby is refusing full feeds, try offering smaller amounts more frequently. This can make feeding less overwhelming and help if they have reflux.

5. **Ensure Proper Latch (for Breastfed Babies):** Ensure your baby has a proper latch during breastfeeding. A poor latch can make feeding difficult and uncomfortable for the baby.

6. **Monitor Hydration and Wet Diapers:** Ensure your baby is staying hydrated. Check for regular wet diapers (at least 6 in 24 hours) and normal bowel movements. Decreased wet diapers could be a sign of dehydration.

7. **Offer Teething Relief:** If teething is the issue, offering teething rings or a chilled, wet washcloth to chew on before feeding can help numb the gums and reduce discomfort.

8. **Check Bottle Nipple (for Bottle-Fed Babies):** Ensure the bottle nipple is not damaged and is the correct flow rate for your baby’s age. A nipple that flows too fast or too slow can frustrate the baby.

9. **Avoid Force-Feeding:** If your baby is refusing to feed, do not force them. This can create a negative association with feeding and make the problem worse.

### When to Seek Medical Attention:

- **Persistent Refusal to Feed:** If your baby continues to refuse feeding for more than a few hours, especially if they are younger than 6 months.
- **Signs of Dehydration:** If you notice signs of dehydration (dry mouth, few wet diapers, sunken eyes, lethargy).
- **Fever or Other Symptoms of Illness:** If there are signs of an infection, such as fever, persistent crying, irritability, or any signs of pain.
- **Weight Loss or Poor Weight Gain:** If your baby is not gaining weight adequately or is losing weight.

### Conclusion:

It is not uncommon for babies to refuse milk occasionally, especially if they are distracted, teething, or experiencing mild discomfort. However, if the refusal to feed persists, if there are other symptoms, or if you are concerned about your baby’s hydration and nutrition, it is best to consult your pediatrician for further evaluation and guidance.