My baby is very cranky at night. last night he was refusing for breastfeeding as well #asktheexpert

Question

My baby is very cranky at night. last night he was refusing for  breastfeeding as well #asktheexpert

Accepted Answer

If your six-month-old baby is cranky at night and refusing breastfeeding, there could be several reasons. Here’s what you can consider and try:

### **1. **Check for Common Issues:**

- **Teething:** Teething can cause discomfort and make babies fussy. Look for signs of teething like swollen gums or drooling.
- **Growth Spurt:** Babies often experience growth spurts around this age, which can disrupt their usual patterns and make them more irritable.
- **Gastrointestinal Discomfort:** Gas, constipation, or other digestive issues can cause discomfort. Check if your baby seems to have a full belly or is passing gas.

### **2. **Establish a Bedtime Routine:**

- **Consistent Routine:** Create a calming bedtime routine to help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep. This might include a warm bath, gentle rocking, or soft music.
- **Comforting Environment:** Ensure the sleeping environment is comfortable and conducive to sleep—dark, quiet, and with a comfortable temperature.

### **3. **Evaluate Feeding and Sleep Patterns:**

- **Daytime Naps:** Ensure your baby is getting enough daytime sleep, as overtiredness can make nighttime sleep difficult.
- **Feeding Schedule:** If you’re introducing solids, ensure that it’s not affecting nighttime feedings. Sometimes, transitioning to solids can change feeding patterns.

### **4. **Offer Comfort in Different Ways:**

- **Soothing Techniques:** Try different soothing techniques such as gentle rocking, singing, or using a pacifier.
- **Comforting Items:** Sometimes, a favorite blanket or toy can provide comfort.

### **5. **Health and Well-being Check:**

- **Temperature and Illness:** Check if your baby is running a fever or showing other signs of illness.
- **Consult Your Pediatrician:** If the crankiness and refusal to feed persist or if you’re concerned, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

### **6. **Monitor for Changes:**

- **Patterns and Timing:** Keep track of any patterns in your baby’s fussiness and feeding issues. This information can be useful for your pediatrician if you need to seek advice.

If the crankiness continues or worsens, it’s best to consult with your pediatrician to ensure there are no underlying health concerns and to get personalized advice for managing your baby’s discomfort.