#asktheexpert why my baby is not teething yet? Age 11 months+

Question

Accepted Answer

If your 11-month-old baby is not feeding well, it could be due to a variety of reasons. Here are some potential causes and things you can try:

1. Teething: At around 11 months, babies are often teething, which can make gums sore and cause discomfort while breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. This could lead to them rejecting the breast or bottle. 2. Distraction: At this age, babies are usually more curious and distractible. They might be more interested in what’s happening around them rather than focusing on feeding. Try to feed your baby in a quiet, calm environment to minimize distractions. 3. Change in Routine: If there have been any recent changes in your baby’s routine (such as starting to eat solids or switching from breast milk to formula), they might be adjusting to the new feeding routine and may show less interest in breastfeeding. 4. Illness or Discomfort: If your baby is feeling unwell (e.g., having a cold, ear infection, or stomach upset), they might refuse to feed. Check for any signs of illness, such as a fever, vomiting, or irritability. 5. Not Hungry: At 11 months, babies often start eating more solids, which could lead to decreased appetite for milk. If your baby is eating more during mealtimes, they might not feel as hungry for breast milk or formula. 6. Bottles or Breast Refusal: If your baby has recently been introduced to a bottle or cup, they might prefer that over breastfeeding, or they may be weaning themselves from breastfeeding. If you're trying to switch to a bottle, it might take time for your baby to adjust. 7. Developmental Changes: Around 11 months, babies are going through rapid physical and mental development, which can sometimes affect their feeding behavior. Loss of appetite could also be a temporary phase. How to Help Encourage Feeding: Offer a calm environment: Reduce distractions and make the feeding time calm and peaceful. Try different feeding positions: Sometimes, changing the feeding position can help make your baby more comfortable. Increase solids gradually: If your baby is eating a lot of solids, offer small, nutritious meals throughout the day to complement breast milk or formula. Offer breast or bottle when they’re sleepy: Some babies are more willing to feed when they’re drowsy or just waking up. Teething relief: If teething is the issue, try using a teething ring or offering cold foods to soothe their gums before feeding. When to Consult a Doctor:

If your baby refuses to feed for more than a day, is showing signs of dehydration, or is not gaining weight, it's important to consult your pediatrician for further evaluation.

In short, your baby’s refusal to feed at 11 months could be related to teething, distraction, illness, or an adjustment to eating solids. If it continues or if you're concerned, speaking with your pediatrician would be a good next step.