Why would a baby go on a breastfeeding strike?Answer From Melissa A. Kurke, R.N., I.B.C.L.C. Show Many factors can trigger a breastfeeding strike — a baby's sudden refusal to breastfeed for a period of time after breastfeeding well for months. Typically, the baby is trying to tell you that something isn't quite right. But a breastfeeding strike doesn't necessarily mean that your baby is ready to wean. Breastfeeding strikes are often short-lived. Causes of a breastfeeding strikeCommon causes of a breastfeeding strike include:
Managing a breastfeeding strikeA breastfeeding strike can be uncomfortable for you and your baby. You might feel rejected and frustrated. Don't feel guilty, though — it's not your fault. To prevent engorgement and maintain your milk supply, pump milk as often as your baby used to breastfeed. You can feed the expressed milk to your baby with a spoon, dropper or bottle. You might also:
If a breastfeeding strike lasts more than a few days, your baby has fewer wet diapers than usual or you're concerned about your baby's difficulty breastfeeding, consult your baby's doctor. With Melissa A. Kurke, R.N., I.B.C.L.C. Sign-up to get Mayo Clinic’s trusted health content
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in the e-mail. April 19, 2022
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