Not feeding (or reluctant) to feed when teething?

[veus]

Is this normal? DD is just pass 3mo, and teething (found the culprit this morning), so she's really grumpy & not feeding well.

I feed lying down generally to help manage the heavy let down but whenever I put her down to feed (when I know she's hungry) I get a screaming baby.

But in the evening or when she's nearly asleep or has gotten desperate she'll feed ok.

She generally feeds well but does get distracted more easily recently.

[HotI]

It is common for babies to get more distracted when feeding around 3 to 4 months. They start to notice the world alot more.

If she has sore gums, rubbing them with a clean finger or a cold face washer before a feed can help.

Also, feeding before she gets really hungry sometimes works better, cos she might be past it.

Night feeds are commonly easier, even when day feeds are a bit troublesome.

So, you sound like you are doing all the right things, and what you are experiencing is pretty normal.

[MantaRay]

Wow, three months is such a wonderful age. It's amazing how aware of their surroundings they become.

As HotI as mentioned, something cold before a feed can work a treat when teething - I kept a teething ring or face washer in the freezer and let the boys suck on it before a feed. At that age often feeding somewhere quiet and darkened can help but for some babies feeding when they are sleepy is the best option. Some mums have luck with feeding in the bath, feeding lying down, or wearing a breastfeeding necklace - any child-proof necklace which is bright and able to be played with. This can reduce the distractibility and help the baby to feed for longer. Good luck!!

[veus]

Thanks ladies!!

Just tried feeding with her on top. Amazing that reflex to go to the breast. ;-) also got a whole Lot of giggles *happy mama*

Have been giving her finger. Will definitely try a cold washer.

Thank you! :-)