#asktheexpert my daughter is 3.5 months old and many a times she licks her fingers . If we remove then she start crying.

Question

#asktheexpert my daughter is 3.5 months old and many a times she  licks her fingers . If we remove then she start crying.

Accepted Answer

finger, thumb, hand,things insertion in the oral cavity is very normal at this stage and usually it is due to teething pain the child is experiencing along with inflammation and pain in the gums.
just maintain hygiene of the child finger as well as any type of things which goes inside the oral cavity and also try to maintain the hygiene of your finger when you are touching the hands of the child.
to decrease the teething pain you can press the gums of the child and if the child is very irritable and crying for pain you can give paracetamol also.
it is a self limiting habit and no treaxtment is required.
but if hygiene is not maintained then dirty things going inside the oral czavity can cause infection fever vomiting and loose motions.

Accepted Answer

It's common for babies to explore their surroundings, including their own hands and fingers, through their mouths. This behavior, known as mouthing, is a normal part of infant development and serves several purposes, including soothing, self-regulation, and sensory exploration.

Here are a few possible reasons why your daughter may be licking her fingers and becoming upset when you remove them:

1. **Self-Soothing**: Babies often suck on their fingers or hands as a way to self-soothe and comfort themselves. The act of sucking can be calming and help them relax, especially during times of stress or discomfort.

2. **Sensory Exploration**: Babies use their mouths to explore and learn about their environment. Licking or sucking on fingers provides sensory input and helps babies make sense of the world around them.

3. **Teething Discomfort**: Teething typically begins around 4-6 months of age, and some babies may start exploring their hands and fingers more as they experience teething discomfort. The pressure of sucking or chewing may provide temporary relief from sore gums.

4. **Hunger**: If your daughter is hungry or seeking comfort between feedings, she may instinctively suck on her fingers as a way to satisfy her oral needs.

If your daughter becomes upset when you try to remove her fingers from her mouth, it may be because she finds the sucking motion comforting and soothing. Instead of forcibly removing her fingers, you can try offering her a pacifier or teething toy as an alternative. These items can satisfy her oral needs while also providing comfort and relief.

It's important to remember that mouthing is a normal behavior for infants and typically poses no cause for concern. However, if your daughter's finger sucking becomes excessive or interferes with her ability to eat, sleep, or engage with her surroundings, you may want to discuss it with your pediatrician. They can offer guidance and support based on your daughter's individual needs and development.