Liviam, he is too young to wean, this is classic breast refusal. You already know many of the tips, but can I suggest you call the ABA on 1800 mum 2 mum?
I think a talk through with a counsellor might really help. Just remember, this WILL pass, so keep persisting, get some tips and try to relax.
Could he not like sucking due to ear pain- given that you said he has a runny nose- he may have a cold affecting his ears or an earache so that maybe why he's not interested at the moment. Hope he gets back to feeding well soon.
I've been trying to get onto the ABA for 4 days now and can only get the recorded message that they are experiencing a massive call volume and to please call back later . I can't even get onto my child health nurse.
I've been wondering if it is breast refusal or not. DD went through this and I couldn't get her back so she ended up FF and I really really don't want this to happen.
I'll keep trying the hotline. Thanks ladies.
Do you have a local ABA contact? If you subscribe you will be given the details of your local group and that is sure to contain a counsellor or two (in case you're desperate!). Alternatively, perhaps their Breast Refusal brochure might be helpful? Your local library or MHC might have a copy, or you can get it on their website.
It could be for any number of reasons. Are there any feeds he does seem to take better, ie first thing in the morning or during the night? I'd identify when he does seem to feed and try to replicate those circumstances as much as possible.
All that is going on for him right now is likely contributing to this, but it won't last forever. It might be a few days, to a week, but my guess is he'll be back with a venegance soon.
My DS did the same thing around 7 months! Then he had two teeth come thru and whent right back to feeding fantastically! He is now 11.5 months and loves his b/f
Try and get hold of the ABA but don't stress to much. It sounds like you are doing the right thing. It should pass!
Jules
Hope you can get through!
The only thing I would say is don't push it. Like Jen says, try to find conditions where he will feed and replicate those as much as possible.
Could he have a sore throat or blocked nose?
DD1 did the same thing at 6 months, I found if I pushed it, she bit or refused or didnt drink much, if she did I would just put her down and leave her. She would eventually come to me when she really wanted it and have a decent drink. I dont think they will intentionally starve themselves. I just perservered and eventually she went back to normal. If you are worried about dehydration have you tried sippy cups of water?
Registered User
. I can't even get onto my child health nurse.
He is now 11.5 months and loves his b/f
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