Why Does My Baby Move So Much While Nursing?
As a new parent, it can be a little alarming to see your baby squirming and kicking while they’re nursing. You might wonder if something is wrong or if they’re not getting enough milk. But rest assured, in most cases, this is perfectly normal behavior.
There are a few reasons why babies move around a lot while nursing. First, they’re trying to find the most comfortable position. Second, they’re using their muscles to help draw milk from the breast. And third, they may be responding to the natural reflexes that help them suck and swallow.
The Importance of Burping
It’s important to burp your baby frequently while they’re nursing, especially if they’re moving around a lot. This will help to prevent them from getting gas pain, which can make them fussy and uncomfortable.
To burp your baby, hold them upright against your shoulder and gently pat or rub their back. You can also try holding them face down on your lap and rubbing their back in a circular motion. If your baby doesn’t burp after a few minutes, don’t worry. Just continue nursing and try again later.
When to Be Concerned
In most cases, baby moving around a lot while nursing is perfectly normal. However, there are a few situations when you should be concerned:
- If your baby is arching their back or crying while nursing, this could be a sign of gas pain or colic.
- If your baby is not gaining weight or seems to be losing weight, this could be a sign of a more serious problem.
- If your baby has a fever or other signs of illness, this could be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
If you’re concerned about your baby’s movements while nursing, talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if there’s a problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
Tips for Making Nursing Easier
Here are a few tips for making nursing easier for both you and your baby:
- Find a comfortable position for both of you.
- Support your baby’s head and neck.
- Make sure your baby’s nose is clear so they can breathe easily.
- Burp your baby frequently.
- Be patient and don’t give up if your baby doesn’t latch on right away.
With a little practice, you and your baby will be able to enjoy nursing together.
Expert Advice
“Nursing is a natural process, but it can take time to get the hang of it,” says Dr. Sarah Buckley, a pediatrician at the Mayo Clinic. “Don’t be afraid to ask for help from your doctor, a lactation consultant, or a friend or family member who has experience with breastfeeding.”
“The most important thing is to be patient and don’t give up,” says Buckley. “With a little time and practice, you and your baby will be able to enjoy nursing together.”
FAQ
Q: Is it normal for my baby to squirm and kick while nursing?
A: Yes, it is perfectly normal for babies to move around a lot while nursing. They are trying to find the most comfortable position, using their muscles to draw milk from the breast, and responding to the natural reflexes that help them suck and swallow.
Q: How often should I burp my baby while nursing?
A: You should burp your baby every 2-3 minutes, especially if they are moving around a lot. This will help to prevent them from getting gas pain, which can make them fussy and uncomfortable.
Q: What should I do if my baby is arching their back or crying while nursing?
A: This could be a sign of gas pain or colic. Try burping your baby more frequently. If that doesn’t help, talk to your doctor. They may recommend a different feeding position or a change in your diet.
Q: What should I do if my baby is not gaining weight or seems to be losing weight?
A: This could be a sign of a more serious problem. Talk to your doctor right away. They can help you determine if there’s a problem and recommend the best course of treatment.
Conclusion
Nursing is a wonderful way to bond with your baby and provide them with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. If you’re having any problems with nursing, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your doctor, a lactation consultant, or a friend or family member who has experience with breastfeeding.
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Our meeting this coming Friday morning is about the ‘Early Daze of … Jan 16, 2023While breastfed babies are less likely to have GERD and reflux issues, it still happens. One possibility that babies seem fussy about eating is that they need a good burp or feel gassy or crampy. Always burp between breasts so nursing can go more smoothly for you and your baby. 13. Different positions are needed.