#asktheexperts my baby is often biting while feeding what should I do Dr

Question

Accepted Answer

If your baby is biting while breastfeeding, it can be painful but is common — especially around teething time. Here’s what you can do:

1. Stay Calm but Firm

When baby bites, gently remove them from the breast and say “No” firmly (but calmly). This helps them learn that biting is not okay.

2. Watch for Cues

Babies often bite at the end of a feed or when they’re not actively nursing. Look for signs like slowing down or playing, and unlatch them before they bite.

3. Offer Teething Relief

If teething is the reason, offer a cold teether or clean cold washcloth to chew on before feeding.

4. Latch Correction

Ensure your baby is latching properly. A deep latch makes biting harder. If biting continues, gently insert your finger into the corner of their mouth to unlatch.

5. Positive Reinforcement

Praise and cuddle your baby when they nurse without biting. They respond well to encouragement.

If the biting becomes frequent or difficult to manage, it’s worth discussing with a pediatrician or lactation consultant to ensure there's no oral issue or feeding pattern concern.