In plain words
A nursing strike is a sudden refusal of the breast by a baby who had been nursing well. The baby may turn away, cry at the breast, or arch away when offered. Many parents are alarmed. Often there is a reason. Ear infections, teething, thrush, a stuffy nose, and a change in the mother's scent or routine can all cause it. Sometimes the baby is simply distracted or overtired. Most nursing strikes pass within days, though some last longer. A nursing strike does not always mean the baby is ill, and it does not mean breastfeeding has to stop. Parents may be told to watch for other signs, such as fever, fewer wet diapers, or weight loss, and to call a provider with concerns.
The deeper version
A nursing strike, defined as abrupt refusal of the breast in a previously nursing infant, has multiple causes. Painful conditions include , dental eruption, oral candidiasis, and gastro-esophageal . Nasal congestion impairs suck-breathe-swallow coordination. Maternal changes in scent, medication, diet, or routine, and environmental distraction, are also reported. Infection and dehydration must be excluded where refusal is persistent, because they can present with feeding aversion alone. Management is directed at the identified cause, and approaches include paced or cup feeding while the cause resolves. Evidence is limited to clinical series and expert consensus.
Where it comes up
- Nursing strikes and refusalFeeding Your Baby
- Biting and teething at the breastFeeding Your Baby
- Introducing a bottle and paced feedingFeeding Your Baby
- Thrush and other nipple infectionsPostpartum: Your Body
- Newborn breathing, congestion, and the noseBaby Basics
What mothers here say about nursing strike
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Sources
- La Leche League International — The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, nursing strikes section
- American Academy of Pediatrics — Clinical Report: The Management of Acute Otitis Media, 2013