#asktheexpert my baby is not taking feeder what to do ???

Question

Accepted Answer

She is on complete breast feed since day one and now i want her to take feeder with breast feed only

Accepted Answer

If your baby is refusing to feed, the reason could be due to temporary discomfort or an underlying issue. Here are some possible causes and solutions:

Possible Reasons & What to Do 1. Baby is Full or Not Hungry

🍼 What to Do: Try feeding after some time; don’t force it. Offer small amounts frequently.

2. Growth Spurts or Teething (if over 4 months)

😖 Signs: Baby seems fussy, drooling, or chewing on hands.
✔ Solution: Offer a cool teether before feeding. Try different feeding positions.

3. Blocked Nose or Cold

🤧 Signs: Baby has a stuffy nose and struggles to breathe while feeding.
✔ Solution: Use saline drops before feeding and keep the baby upright.

4. Gas or Colic Pain

😢 Signs: Baby cries, arches back, and passes gas.
✔ Solution: Give a gentle tummy massage, bicycle leg exercise, and burp well after feeds.

5. Milk Flow Issues (Too Fast or Too Slow)

💨 Fast Flow (Overactive Letdown in breastfeeding)
✔ Try feeding in a reclined position to slow milk flow. Express a little milk before latching.

🐌 Slow Flow (Baby loses interest)
✔ Compress the breast while feeding or try a faster nipple flow if bottle-feeding.

6. Thrush or Mouth Ulcers

👄 Signs: White patches inside the mouth, baby pulls away while feeding.
✔ Solution: Consult a doctor for an antifungal treatment if needed.

7. Distraction (Common After 4 Months)

🧐 Signs: Baby looks around and loses focus.
✔ Solution: Feed in a quiet, dim-lit room. Reduce noise and distractions.

8. Ear Infection or Sore Throat

👂 Signs: Baby cries while sucking, pulls at ears.
✔ Solution: If symptoms persist, consult a pediatrician.

When to See a Doctor?

🚨 If your baby:**

Has no wet diapers for 6+ hours (sign of dehydration). Shows weight loss or lack of weight gain. Is very lethargic or irritable.

Try the above solutions based on the symptoms. Let me know your baby’s age and specific symptoms, and I’ll guide you better!