What to do when the breastfeeding, breast feeding, breastmilk, breast milk, 
When Your Baby Refuses Your Breast

If your newborn has had some bottle feedings or uses a pacifier a lot, he may seem confused at the breast, or even refuse to go to the breast. Sometimes babies have difficulty latching-on if your nipples are soft and flat.

Make sure the baby is positioned correctly at the breast. Roll the baby on his side and position him so his mouth is directly in front of your breast. He shouldn't have to turn his head to get to the breast. If your nipple is difficult to grasp, roll it gently between your fingers to make it stand out.  Make your breast into a "nipple sandwich" by gently compressing behind the edge of the areola.   Stroke your baby's lips until his mouth opens wide and pull him quickly onto the breast. Encourage your baby softly and calmly.

Sometimes lying down with your baby and cuddling skin to skin helps. Just relax and allow your baby to come to the breast when he shows an interest.  Try this several times each day for an hour or two.  Not only is skin-to-skin contact great for promoting breastfeeding, it helps enhance your baby's nervous system and is fun to do.

Sometimes lactation consultants recommend feeding the baby with an alternative feeding method in addition to trying at the breast.  If, after 5-10 minutes, your baby does not latch-on to the breast, offer pumped breastmilk or formula in a way that will not compromise breastfeeding.  It is best not to persist beyond 10 minutes if your baby is resisting the breast.  You want the breast to be a pleasant place for your baby to be, not a battle ground.  Click here to learn about alternative ways of feeding babies.  You may need the advice a lactation consultant to give you guidance in these situations.

Persistence and patience will remedy this situation. Don't confuse your baby with rubber bottle nipples or pacifiers at this time. After breastfeeding is going well, they can be used. Remember, your newborn needs to nurse 8 - 12 times per day. You should expect to see 6 - 8 wet diapers and several stools each day. If using these hints doesn't help resolve these problems, make an appointment to see a Lactation Consultant or contact your physician.

Please remember that this is general breastfeeding information only
and does not replace the advice of your health care practitioner.
If you have a problem that you are not able to resolve, seek the assistance of a Certified Lactation Consultant.