hello i am a mother of 4 month old. she keeps on scratching her head and cry a lot while doing this. After noticing i found that she mostly do this while Breastfeeding... please recommend whats the reason for this

Question

Accepted Answer

It sounds like your 4-month-old might be experiencing some discomfort or irritation that causes her to scratch her head and cry while breastfeeding. Here are a few possible reasons for this behavior:

### 1. **Itchiness or Dry Skin**:
   - Babies can have dry or sensitive skin, which may become itchy, especially on the scalp. This can be due to cradle cap (seborrheic dermatitis), which is common in infants. Cradle cap causes flaky, scaly patches on the scalp that can be itchy.
   - **Solution**: Check if your baby has any flaky or scaly patches on her scalp. Gently massage her scalp with a soft brush or use baby oil to loosen the flakes before shampooing. Use a mild, fragrance-free baby shampoo.

### 2. **Eczema or Allergic Reaction**:
   - Eczema can cause itchiness and discomfort on the scalp and other parts of the body. Allergies to food (especially if breastfeeding mothers eat certain foods) or reactions to laundry detergents, lotions, or shampoos can also cause itchiness.
   - **Solution**: If you suspect eczema or an allergy, consider consulting a pediatrician. They may recommend an appropriate moisturizer or treatment.

### 3. **Discomfort or Frustration**:
   - Sometimes babies scratch or pull at themselves as a way of expressing discomfort or frustration, especially if they are having difficulty feeding. This could be due to a poor latch, slow milk flow, or too fast of a let-down reflex.
   - **Solution**: Observe if there are any signs of feeding difficulties, such as excessive fussiness, pulling away, or difficulty latching. Experiment with different breastfeeding positions to find one that is more comfortable for both of you. If you're concerned about your milk flow, a lactation consultant might be able to help.

### 4. **Teething**:
   - Although 4 months is early, some babies begin teething around this time, and the discomfort can cause them to scratch or tug at their head and ears.
   - **Solution**: Look for other signs of teething, such as drooling, chewing on objects, or swollen gums. If teething is suspected, providing a cold teething toy can help soothe the discomfort.

### 5. **Ear Infection**:
   - Occasionally, babies may scratch their head or pull at their ears if they have an ear infection, which can cause pain or discomfort during feeding.
   - **Solution**: If your baby seems unusually fussy, has a fever, or pulls at her ears, consult your pediatrician to rule out an ear infection.

### 6. **General Discomfort**:
   - Babies sometimes scratch or pull at their hair when they are tired, overstimulated, or in need of comfort.
   - **Solution**: Ensure your baby is comfortable, not too hot or cold, and in a calm feeding environment. Sometimes dimming the lights and reducing noise can help create a more relaxing atmosphere.

If you continue to see this behavior or if it becomes more frequent or severe, it's best to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues and to get personalized advice based on your baby's needs.