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Is your baby crying while eating? That would be concerning. It can extend feeding sessions, which will be stressful for both you and your baby. Also, it may lead to your baby not getting enough food. That can affect their development.
As such, it is important to learn the causes and how you can help them. Continue reading to learn about these.
Why Is My Baby Crying While Eating?
There is no single explanation for why a baby cries while they are eating. There are a number of possible reasons. It could be overtiredness or a growth spurt. Also, it could be as simple as they are full.
Overtiredness
If babies do not get enough naptime, they can become overtired. This condition is famously known for making it difficult for babies to fall asleep at night. However, that's not its only effect. Since overtiredness causes fussiness, it also makes it difficult for babies to eat. This leads to scenarios where they cry while they are eating.
Sickness
Even adults lose their appetite when they are sick. That same goes for babies. The way babies express discomfort is through crying. As a result, the baby might cry while nursing.
Thankfully, there are things you can use to help comfort them. For example, a nasal aspirator for newborns can help clear out mucus in their nose. The Momcozy BreezyClear Pro™ 2-in-1 Spray & Suction Electric Nasal Aspirator is a great option. It comes with hospital-grade suction, which gives it the power to solve all congestion problems.
Teething
Unlike sickness, teething is important for a baby's development. However, it can also cause physical pain. Since this change is happening in their mouths, which they also use for nursing, it causes discomfort. That leads to the infant crying while feeding.
Problems with Their Stomach
Some babies have reflux. It causes the contents of their stomach to flow back up. It can make them uncomfortable and cause them to cry.
But sometimes, it is not that serious. It could be that they have swallowed air while feeding. As such, they feel gassy and need to burp. Crying is their way of telling you this.
Already Full or Too Hungry
A full baby will cry and refuse to feed more. So, consider how long the feeding session has been or when the last session was. If it has been a while since the last feeding session, it could be that they are very hungry instead. While they would want to feed, they would cry out of frustration.
Why Do Babies Cry While Breastfeeding?
If a baby is crying while breastfeeding, the problem is related to how much milk they are getting. The problem could be inefficient latching or overactive letdown.
Inefficient Latching
Babies need a good latch to get an adequate amount of breastmilk. They get fussy when they can't, causing them to cry.
Overactive Letdown
Some mothers have hyperlactation syndrome or overactive letdown. This causes milk to rapidly exit your breasts. Your baby may choke, which would make them cry.
Food Passing Through
You probably already know that what you eat can affect your breastmilk. While many dishes don't have an effect, there are some that are to be avoided. For example, soy and peanuts are common allergens that could cause reactions in your baby. Spicy foods and chocolates could affect the milk's flavor and upset your baby. Meanwhile, high-fiber foods may cause gassiness.
Why Do Babies Cry While Bottle Feeding?
Similar to breastfeeding, babies may cry because of how fast or slow they are getting milk. Besides that, there are other factors in bottle feeding that may also cause fussiness.
Incorrect Nipple
The nipple of the feeding bottle you are using may release milk too fast or too slow. As we discussed in the overactive letdown and latching sections above, it can cause fussiness.
Transitioning
Your baby may not be used to feeding from bottles yet. If that's the case, fussiness is to be expected. They may still be figuring out how to feed from bottles. They may not be able to latch properly as a result. It can make your baby frustrated, and they may cry because of it.
Milk Temperature
Babies are specific about the milk temperature. They want it to be a certain temperature. That's why baby bottle warmers exist. With that said, bottled milk or formula that's not at the right temperature will not make them happy.
Problems with the Formula
Not all formulas are the same. You may be using one that your baby does not like or is not right for your baby. It may be causing reflux or gassiness. Cow milk-based formulas can also trigger lactose intolerance. So, try changing the formula you are using.
When Are the Tears Occurring?
Are the tears dropping while your baby is feeding? Or is it before or after? Pay attention to this, as it is key to identifying the problem. Here are the possible causes per scenario:
Before Feeding
- Hunger
- Overtiredness
- Discomfort
- Gas or tummy pain
During Feeding
- Poor latching
- Milk flow is too fast or too slow
- Gassiness
- Intolerance or reflux
- Overstimulation from a busy environment
After Feeding
- Overfeeding
- Gassiness
- Still hungry
- Reflux
- Needs a diaper change
What Should I Do to Help?
What you should do to help depends on the reason why they're crying and your feeding method. Below, we will explore the different steps that you can take for the scenarios we have discussed.
How to Help Breastfeeding Babies?
Let us first address the things that you have full control over. One of them is your diet. Before nursing sessions, avoid eating foods that can pass through milk and affect its quality. This includes spicy food, chocolates, caffeine, and more.
Next, find a position that will enable your baby to latch better. The laid-back position is the most recommended. To check if your baby has a good latch, watch out for these signs:
- Your baby's nose is close to your breast
- Their lips are flanged
Now, how about if you have an overactive letdown? The laid-back position is still a great option. Alternatively, you can try the football hold or the side-lying position. These give your baby more control over the milk flow.
Since overtiredness is another cause, it's also wise to create a sleeping schedule. It can help ensure your baby is getting enough sleep. The Momcozy newborn sound machine can help you with this.
The Momcozy Smart Baby Sound Machine - App Remote Control is a phenomenal choice. It offers 34 high-fidelity white noise sounds, which can help soothe your baby and induce sleepiness. It is also very convenient to use, as you can adjust the settings on your phone.
How to Help Bottle-Feeding Babies?
Suppose you just started transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle feeding. We recommend making it gradual. Start with just two ounces of breast milk or formula to get your baby used to feeding from bottles. Then, as days pass by, gradually change some feeding sessions from breastfeeding to bottle feedings.
Remember, the nipple on the baby bottle matters. If your baby cries during feeding sessions, consider changing it. You may opt for one that has a wider or narrower opening. See which one your baby will like.
Changing the baby formula is also an option. However, please consult your pediatrician first to ensure the safety of your baby.
Furthermore, do not forget to warm up the bottled milk or formula. Just ensure that it is not too hot, as that will burn your baby's mouth.
When Should I Call the Doctor?
You should consider calling a doctor if you have tried all possible solutions and your baby still cries when nursing. They will help you problem-solve and find a way to make feedings easier for you and your baby.
If you notice rashes and other signs of allergic reactions, that is also a sign to consider seeking professional help.
Conclusion
Why is your baby crying while eating? It could be because of simple reasons. For example, they're already full or they need to be burped. But it's not always like that. Sometimes, it signals that there is a deeper problem. It could be about bottle nipples, overactive letdown, overtiredness, or allergic reactions. Pay close attention to your baby's activities and schedules to identify the root cause. Then, try to solve the problem.
Consider calling your doctor when things are not getting any better after trying everything you can. A more serious condition could be causing this.
