Hi,
Sometimes at ages of three to five months or later, some babies abruptly refuse to nurse. Known as a 'nursing strike'. During this periods babies stop
breastfeeding for several days which may be temporary and surmountable. Reasons that may occurs are:
1) A
cold or stuffy nose, which inhibits breathing while nursing
2) Ear infections
3) Discomfort from
teething / cold sores
4) Recent change to bottle feeding which has higher and easier flow rate then breast feeding (if still nursing) baby will refuse breast feeding
5) over use of pacifier decreasing need to suck of breasts
6) Reduction in breast milk supply (occurs mainly when mother is stressed)
7) Change in breast milk taste (many multivitamins and other drugs are secreted in breast milk, spicy food consumption by mother effects tasted of breast milk)
8) For non-nursing related causes - change in brand of milk or the fat content
9) Use of strong deodorant / soap / perfume or recent changes in life style of nursing mother like alcohol intake etc.
Advise:
1) Due to current seasonal change have baby checked by
pediatrician for chest congestion or nasal congestion
>>>> a) If unable to have access to pediatrician try using 'VapoRub' or eucalyptus oil baby on the chest to improve the congestion
>>>> b) If humidifier is available try to humidify the air around the baby to ease the harsh dry air
2) Do not rush into changing food thinking baby will starve, they are usually good at not staying Hungary for long time
3) Reverse the changes mentioned above if any of them applies to you
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Jay Patel, General & Family Physician