Breastfeeding and biting

Yes, it's normal and common for babies to bite when breastfeeding as they become older, more playful and begin teething.

Biting may happen when your baby adjusts their latch (suction) or waits for your milk to flow. During teething, your baby may bite to help soothe their sore gums. While biting can be uncomfortable, this is usually a passing phase.

Your baby may bite during breastfeeding for several reasons. In the first few weeks after birth, a natural reflex or tight mouth muscles can cause biting.

As your baby starts teething between 3 and 12 months old, they may bite if their gums are sore.

Biting happens more often at the end of a feed and when they are not actively feeding.

Teething

When your baby starts teething, they may bite during breastfeeding to relieve gum pain.

As their new teeth come through, they may press them against your breast. This can leave small dents or marks on your breast. Although these aren't actual bites, they can still be painful.

Low milk flow

Your baby may bite while they wait, if your milk flow is slow or delayed.

Baby is full

Biting can also mean that your baby has had enough milk and is being playful.

Distracted or wants attention

Your baby may bite when they are distracted or do not want to feed. It may also happen if your baby notices that you are distracted and is seeking your attention.

There's no need to stop breastfeeding when your baby has teeth. Exclusive breastfeeding is best for your baby's first 6 months. After that, you can continue to breastfeed while also giving solids until your baby is 12 months or more, for as long as you both want.

Both you and your baby benefit from extended breastfeeding. Breastfeeding promotes your baby's growth and supports their immune health. It may lower your risk of breast and ovarian cancers and help your body recover after birth.

Try adjusting your baby's position to avoid pressure from new teeth. Feeding should feel comfortable again as teeth settle. If it doesn't resolve, speak with a maternal health nurse, doctor or a lactation consultant.

You can manage biting during breastfeeding with a few simple techniques. Here are tips that may help:

• Hold your baby closely, chest-to-chest and support their weight. Your baby should have a big wide mouth. Their chin should be tucked into your breast.
• If biting happens, gently break the suction by inserting a finger between their gums. Say 'no' calmly and firmly. This can teach them not to bite as babies often understand more than they can communicate.
• Avoid a loud or startled reaction. Your baby may find your attention amusing or may become frightened.
• Offer your baby something cold or firm to chew on before breastfeeding if they're teething. A teething ring to soothe their gums may help. You can also gently rub their gums with an ice cube wrapped in a soft cloth.
• To help stimulate your milk flow, hand-express a little milk before starting to feed.
• Watch for cues when your baby seems distracted or has finished feeding. Your baby may bite if they're finished or distracted. Try to maintain eye contact and keep a calm environment while feeding.

See your doctor if your nipple is sore, doesn't heal, is inflamed or infected. Also see your doctor if you start to feel unwell.

If a bite breaks the skin on your nipple, you can treat it as you would a sore or cracked nipple. You can:

• apply breastmilk to the area after feeding
• allow your nipple to air dry
• change damp breast pads or bras promptly

Your baby's saliva may also irritate your nipple. Try rinsing your nipple with a solution of 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda in 1 cup of water. You can also try bathing your breast in salty water.

Australian Breastfeeding Association (Opens in new tab) provides guidance on biting and breastfeeding support. Call their Breastfeeding Helpline on 1800 mum2mum (1800 686 268).

Do you prefer to read in languages other than English?

• Health Translations offers information breastfeeding your baby (Opens in new tab) and breastfeeding positions (Opens in new tab) in many languages.
• If you need an interpreter, call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450. Ask them to telephone Breastfeeding Helpline on 1800 686 268.

Looking for information for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people?

• Breastmilk Talk (Opens in new tab) — 'Ngaminjang Djama' shares stories on breastfeeding benefits, written for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
• Australian Breastfeeding Association (Opens in new tab) also offers breastfeeding resources for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.