POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy11 months agoA. It’s not uncommon for a 13-month-old to suddenly refuse breastfeeding, and there are several possible reasons for this:
1. Nursing Strike: Sometimes babies temporarily refuse to nurse due to stress, teething, or changes in routine. This is called a "nursing strike" and can be temporary.
2. Teething: Even if she isn’t showing signs of discomfort, teething can make sucking uncomfortable, leading to frustration when nursing.
3. Increased Interest in Solid Foods: As your baby becomes more independent and starts eating a wider variety of foods, she might naturally prefer solids over breast milk.
4. Distraction or Developmental Changes: At this age, babies are often more curious and easily distracted, which can affect their interest in breastfeeding.
5. Decreased Milk Supply: If your milk supply has decreased due to fewer nursing sessions, she may get frustrated when she doesn’t get milk right away.
What You Can Do:
Don’t Force It: Forcing nursing can create negative associations. Instead, offer the breast gently when she’s calm or sleepy.
Try Different Positions: She might find a different nursing position more comfortable, especially if teething is an issue.
Skin-to-Skin Contact: Try spending time with skin-to-skin contact to encourage nursing in a relaxed manner.
Pump Milk: If she’s not nursing, consider expressing milk to keep up your supply and offer it in a cup.
If the nursing strike continues for more than a few days, or if you’re concerned about her milk intake, it may be helpful to consult a lactation consultant or pediatrician for additional guidance.
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