A breastfeeding strike is when a baby suddenly refuses to breastfeed. Usually this lasts about three to five days, however, can sometimes last longer. A breastfeeding strike should not be mistaken for self-weaning. Babies under 12 months of age rarely self wean, and if they do, it is a gradual process.

There are several reasons why a baby may suddenly refuse to nurse.  Stuffy noses, ear infections, teething pain, injuries to a baby’s mouth could all make them not so eager to breastfeed. For some babies a change in lotion, soap, or perfume can mask mother’s natural scent and can make the breast unappealing. Sometimes a baby will stop breastfeeding if something upsetting happened during a feeding, such as mom yelping in pain due to being bit. If milk supply has decreased, baby may also refuse to breastfeed.

There are many techniques that can be used to get baby back to breast. The first step would be to offer the breast frequently, but don’t force. Avoid waiting to offer the breast until baby is overly hungry, as they might be too upset to settle and nurse. If baby starts to become frustrated, simply stop, and feed via another method.

It is important to keep up with milk removal while your baby is refusing the breast. Express your milk for any time that your infant takes a meal from another method, such as a bottle or syringe feeding. Not only is this necessary so you can provide milk for your baby, but it will help you to protect your milk supply. Offering your expressed milk will ensure baby is getting the nutrition they need. If you don’t have enough expressed milk available, you will need to offer donor human milk or formula. Expressed milk can be given via bottle or cup for babies 6 months or older. Younger babies can take milk from a paced bottle feed, syringe feeding or other method. For guidance on alternative feedings such as syringe, dropper or spoon, it’s best to contact an experienced lactation consultant who can educate you on how to do them. I

It’s also a good idea to limit pacifier use while a baby is going through a nursing strike, as they may be more inclined to go back to the breast to satisfy their sucking needs.

Skin to skin contact with baby can also encourage them to want to breastfeed. Try taking a bath with your little one. Enter the tub first and have your partner hand baby to you once you are safely seated. Wearing textured massage gloves can allow you to safely hold onto a slippery, possibly squirmy baby. Fill the tub with warm water just below the level of your breasts. A bath pillow or rolled up towel placed under your neck may be helpful as you recline to breastfeed. Try to keep baby warm by keeping the lower half of her body comfortable under the water. Allowing them to explore the breast, without pressure to feed, can be help.

Changing the environment and switching positions can also be helpful. Offer the breast in a quiet dim room. This can help baby focus on the breast. Keep in mind that you need to limit distractions for yourself as well; if you have a tendency to be on your phone while nursing, put it away and focus on your baby.

Pumping for a few minutes before a feeding will elicit a letdown, which is a quick reward for baby and can encourage them to latch, stay latched and begin drinking at the breast.

If a nursing strike persists, you should consider having your baby looked at by their pediatrician, as this can help rule out any health issues that may be contributing to a nursing strike.

The most important thing to remember is to have patience. While this can be frustrating and worrisome, it is usually temporary. Perseverance, patience, and a little coaxing is typically all that is needed to turn things around and have a baby happily breastfeeding once again.