[Submitted Question]

My six-month old daughter bit me yesterday while breastfeeding. She really chomped down and it hurt very bad! I actually have quite a bruise there today. Is there some way to teach her not to do so? I am afraid I might have to wean early if she keeps on doing it!

[WombToBloom]

I think it’s pretty natural for babies to do this – which doesn’t make it hurt any less, of course! There are a few things you can try. First, if she bites and doesn’t let go, push her towards your breast. Her nose will be blocked and she’ll have to release her bit in order to breathe – which she’ll do quickly. Hopefully, she’ll figure out that this is what happens when she bites.

Or you can pop your finger or knuckle between her teeth and your nipple as soon as she bites down. If she’s teething, try a chilled teething ring as an alternative. If she is biting after she’s full, watch for signs that she’s getting full and pull her off the breast before she starts “playing.” Or immediately pull her away and put her down when she bites – don’t startle her and don’t yell – the action alone will tell her that biting means no more milk. But she might not “get” this for a few months. Good luck and hang in there!

[noel0077]

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