7 Effective Tips to Stop Your Baby from Biting While Nursing, Prevent Pain Naturally

Breastfeeding should be a warm and nurturing moment that strengthens the bond between mother and baby. However, some mothers experience sudden, intense pain when their baby unexpectedly bites during feeding. The shock of that pain can make a mother anxious, or even fearful, about continuing to nurse. This article explores the common reasons why babies bite while breastfeeding and shares gentle, effective tips to prevent it. Every mother deserves a breastfeeding experience free from pain or fear, and with the right approach, it’s absolutely possible.

Why Do Babies Bite While Breastfeeding?

Biting during breastfeeding is a common behavior, especially during the teething stage. Here are some of the most frequent reasons it happens:

1. Teething Discomfort

When a baby’s gums start to itch or feel sore, they may bite to relieve the sensation. This usually occurs between 4–8 months of age, when the first teeth begin to emerge.

2. Boredom or Fullness

Once a baby is full, they might start to play with the nipple. Sometimes, they bite out of curiosity or to get their mother’s attention.

3. Improper Latch or Positioning

If the baby isn’t latching correctly, it can be hard for them to suck comfortably. To compensate, they may bite to help the milk flow. That’s why learning proper breastfeeding techniques and positions is essential to ensure a smooth feeding experience.

4. Nipple Confusion

Switching between breast and bottle feeding can cause nipple confusion, making it difficult for the baby to control their sucking strength, often leading to biting.

5. Reflex or Curiosity

During the exploratory stage (around 4–8 months), babies use their mouths to learn about the world around them. Biting can be part of this curiosity, not an intentional act to hurt their mother.

Understanding these causes is the first step to applying gentle, effective strategies to stop your baby from biting while nursing.

Also read: Try These 8 Ways to Relieve Breast Pain for Breastfeeding Mothers

7 Tips to Stop Your Baby from Biting While Breastfeeding 

Source: freepik

Dealing with a baby who likes to bite can be challenging, but it’s absolutely manageable. Here are seven effective tips every mother can apply to stop biting during breastfeeding:

1. Watch for Signs Your Baby Is Full

When your baby starts to slow down, giggle, or play with your nipple, end the feeding session right away. This helps teach your baby that biting means feeding time is over.

2. Ensure Proper Latch and Positioning

Make sure your baby’s mouth is wide open with their chin touching your breast. A good latch keeps your baby comfortable and prevents biting caused by difficulty in sucking.

3. Be Firm but Gentle When Your Baby Bites

If your baby bites, don’t shout or startle them. Pause the feeding, look them in the eye, and calmly say, “Don’t bite, sweetheart.” Consistent, calm responses help your baby understand boundaries.

4. Offer a Teether Before Nursing

A teether can soothe your baby’s itchy gums. After chewing for a few minutes, your baby is usually calmer and less likely to bite during feeding.

5. Avoid Laughing or Overreacting

Laughing or showing surprise can make biting seem like a game to your baby. Try to stay calm and keep a neutral facial expression.

6. Maintain Eye Contact While Nursing

Eye contact keeps your baby focused and emotionally connected to you, helping them stay calm and reducing the urge to bite.

7. Use a Soft, Breast-Like Teat for Bottle Feeding

If your baby switches between breast and bottle, choose a flexible teat that closely mimics the breast. A teat that’s too firm may cause your baby to bite as a form of adjustment.

Also read: 5 Steps to Breastfeed Correctly and Minimize Pain

Hegen Teat: The Perfect Solution for Teething Babies Who Like to Bite 

Teething babies often need a safe and comfortable aid to help reduce their urge to bite—and this is where the Hegen teat becomes the perfect solution for modern mothers.

1. Flexible and Breast-Like Design

The Hegen teat is designed to closely resemble the natural shape of a mother’s breast, helping babies transition easily without nipple confusion. Its soft silicone material provides gentle comfort for sensitive gums.

2. Food-Grade and Bite-Resistant Material

Made from BPA-free, food-grade silicone, the Hegen teat is both durable and soft—safe even for teething babies who tend to bite frequently.

3. Supports Paced Bottle Feeding

The teat’s design promotes slow, natural milk flow, allowing babies to feed at their own rhythm. This helps prevent choking and reduces the tendency to bite due to an overly fast milk flow.

4. Ideal for the Nursing Transition Stage

The Hegen teat is perfect for babies learning to transition from breast to bottle. Its ergonomic design and anti-colic, feature ensure a more comfortable feeding experience without putting pressure on the gums.

By using the Hegen teat, mothers can effectively apply gentle techniques to prevent biting during feeding, offering babies a more natural, soothing, and enjoyable feeding experience.

Also read: How to Burp Your Baby After Feeding to Help Prevent Colic

When Should You Consult a Doctor or Lactation Consultant?

While biting is a normal phase, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help. Consider consulting a doctor or lactation expert if you experience any of the following:

• Your baby keeps biting and refuses to nurse: This may indicate gum problems, an oral infection, or a serious latch issue.

• Your nipples are severely cracked or bleeding: Open wounds can lead to infection and make breastfeeding even more painful or traumatic.

• The pain makes you reluctant to breastfeed: If discomfort disrupts your daily routine or causes significant stress, reach out to a lactation consultant for personalized solutions.

• You want to wean gently: A lactation consultant can guide you through a soft, emotionally supportive weaning process for both mother and baby.

Biting during breastfeeding is a common phase and can be managed with patience. By understanding the causes and applying the right techniques, you can get through this stage without fear or trauma.

Remember, breastfeeding isn’t just about nourishment, it’s also about giving your baby a sense of comfort, safety, and love. With a gentle approach, both mother and baby can continue to cherish these intimate moments together.

Looking for a baby bottle with a soft, safe teat for your teething little one? Hegen bottles feature an ergonomic design, a teat that mimics the natural shape of the breast, and durable, bite-resistant materials. Explore the full collection at official online store Hegen Indonesia and enjoy a delightful shopping experience today!

Featured image - freepik