Breastfeeding and biting
5-minute read
Key facts
- It is common for babies to bite during breastfeeding, but this doesn’t mean you can’t continue to breastfeed.
- Your baby may bite if they’re teething, feeling impatient for milk, already full or seeking your attention.
- Although biting during breastfeeding is uncomfortable and sometimes painful, it is usually a temporary phase.
- Techniques such as teething relief and mindful holding and positioning of your baby during feeds can help manage biting.
- See your doctor or maternal health nurse if your nipple doesn’t heal or becomes infected.
Is it normal for my baby to bite when breastfeeding?
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.
Why might my baby be biting?
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.
Should I stop breastfeeding when my baby has teeth?
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.
FIND A HEALTH SERVICE — The Service Finder can help you find doctors, pharmacies, hospitals and other health services.
How do I stop my baby biting?
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.
When should I see a health professional?
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.
CHECK YOUR SYMPTOMS — Use the Symptom Checker and find out if you need to seek medical help.
A lactation consultant or Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) counsellor can provide guidance. Especially if biting continues or if you’re not sure why your baby is biting.
How do I treat my nipple?
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.
Resources and support
Australian Breastfeeding Association 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 and breastfeeding positions 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 — ‘Ngaminjang Djama’ shares stories on breastfeeding benefits, written for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
- Australian Breastfeeding Association also offers breastfeeding resources for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people.
Speak to a maternal child health nurse
Call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby to speak to a maternal child health nurse on 1800 882 436 or video call. Available 7am to midnight (AET), 7 days a week.