Teeth!

[lilbitneurotic]

Argh! I have successfully breastfed my DS till 9 months, I've never had any problems or so much as a cracked nipple so was hoping to continue to a year and wean directly onto cows milk. Last week my DS got his first tooth, I never really computed that this would be a problem and for the most part of the feed it isn't. The problem comes towards the end of the feed when he clamps down (on my nipple with his new wee tooth) and pulls away -yowzer and ouchy!

My question is how do I discourage this? Is there any way to stop it altogether or am I going to have to wean? It seems such a shame to introduce formula for the sake of 2/3 months.

They all go through this phase. Mine did, but we got past it and I continue to breastfeed now (even though he's 2 with a full set), although I'm desperate to stop but DS isn't so willing, but that's another story.

Be firm say no, withdraw immediately, pinch their nose if necessary. Learn to preempt when they're going to bite. With my DS it was after he'd fed and was no longer really feeding, he was beginning to tire. So I learnt to finish breastfeeding before this point.

Dig out your lansinoh because it may take a while and you may get bitten often before you've nipped it in the bud.

My DD did the same when she got her first tooth. I used to end the feed immediately (it was always at the end when she was getting a bit bored). The phase didn't last long and once the first two teeth had completely erupted, she stopped the biting. So hopefully it won't last long for you too!

if he bites cuddle him really close that way he'll have to let go to breath. Do it every time and he'll stop doing it.

Remember, this too will pass.

Oh and try to hold still if he bites, if you flinch and pull away while he is biting it'll hurt a lot more than if he just bites iyswim.

Thank you all! Glad to hear this is normal and he's not just being mean! I will try and persevere and use your tips!