When your baby is refusing a bottle of breastmilk, it can be frustrating and concerning. By understanding the reasons behind the refusal and by getting ahead of it before there's a refusal taking place, we can help you address the issue more effectively. Here are some of the most common reasons babies might refuse a bottle of breastmilk, along with tips on how to overcome these challenges.
Nipple Confusion
Babies accustomed to breastfeeding may struggle to adapt to a bottle nipple, which feels and functions differently than the breast. This nipple confusion is less confusion and more preference. It's for this reason we created a 3 part series to help if your baby is refusing a bottle of breastmilk. In this blog though, we will cover some reason why this can happen and a few suggestions that can be helpful.
Preference for Breast
Some babies simply prefer the comfort and familiarity of breastfeeding. You might try purchasing and using a nipple shield for a couple of feedings a day and that may help. Be patient and try different at times or have someone else offer the bottle.
Another Reason Your Baby Is Refusing a Bottle of Breastmilk Could Be the Flow & Shape of the Nipple
The flow rate from the bottle nipple might be too fast or too slow, causing frustration. Sometimes babies are picky about the type of bottle or nipple shape. Experimenting with different bottle designs and nipple shapes and flow might help you find one that your baby prefers. But, in our professional experience, it's almost never about the type of nipple or the bottle itself. So, while we suggest trying different nipples and bottle out if you have them lying around or a friend passes them down to you, I wouldn't waste money on a million different types.
Taste of the Milk/High Lipase Levels
The taste of expressed breast milk can vary depending on the mother's diet, how the milk was stored, or if it has been frozen and thawed. If your baby refuses thawed milk, try offering freshly expressed milk instead. Some mothers have high lipase levels in their breast milk, which can cause the milk to develop a soapy or metallic taste after being stored. Scalding the milk immediately after pumping and before storing can help reduce this effect. Per Lawrence & Lawrence, bile salt-stimulated lipase can be destroyed by heating the milk at 144.5 F (62.5 C) for one minute (p. 205), or at 163 F (72 C) for up to 15 seconds (p. 771).
Timing and Hunger Levels
If your baby isn’t very hungry, they may be less willing to take a bottle. Conversely, if they’re too hungry, they might be too frustrated to feed from a bottle. Try offering the bottle at different times, especially when your baby is calm and moderately hungry and even try when they are moderately sleepy. Here at The Jax Baby Company we have suggestions on best timing of bottle introduction.
If Your Baby Is Refusing A Bottle of Breastmilk due to Discomfort or Illness
Teething, ear infections, or other illnesses can make feeding uncomfortable, leading to bottle refusal. Ensure your baby is healthy and comfortable before offering a bottle. Save this challenge for a time that isn't already challenging enough!
Positional Association with Breastfeeding
If your baby is used to being breastfed in a certain position or environment, they may resist bottle feeding if it doesn’t mimic that experience. Try holding your baby in a similar position to how you nurse them or use a nursing cover during bottle feeding. And again, conversely, you may want to try the opposite.
Emotional State
Babies are sensitive to the emotional state of their caregivers. If they're stressed or anxious during feeding times, your baby might pick up on those feelings and refuse the bottle. Keeping calm and relaxed to create a positive feeding environment can help your baby feel relaxed and they are more likely to accept a bottle while feeling relaxed and safe. Take breaks and try again later
If your baby continues to refuse the bottle despite trying these strategies, consider consulting with a professional who offers one-on-one help and guidance.
Authored by Elizabeth Luke
Elizabeth is the founder and CEO of The Jacksonville Baby Company. Elizabeth and her husband and best friend, Richard are parents to four children. With certifications in Postpartum and Infant Care Support, Childbirth and Newborn Care Education, Lactation Support, and Infant Sleep, Elizabeth is a wealth of knowledge and has a heart for helping parents live their best lives while also ensuring their children are safe, happy, and leading their healthiest lives possible! Contact us today for day, night, and live-in support!
References:
Lawrence R, Lawrence R. Breastfeeding: A Guide for the Medical Profession, 6th ed. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Mosby, 2005: 156-158, 203-205, 771, 781.
Lawrence RA. Storage of human milk and the influence of procedures on immunological components of human milk. Acta Paediatr Suppl. 1999 Aug;88(430):14-8.
Comments