A new born baby not sucking her mothers breast

It's not uncommon for newborn babies to have difficulty latching or sucking at the breast, especially in the first few days after birth. Here are some possible reasons why a newborn baby may not be sucking her mother's breast:

  1. Lack of sucking reflex: Newborn babies are still developing their sucking reflex, which is the ability to suckle and feed. This reflex may not be fully developed at birth, leading to difficulty latching.
  2. Tongue-tie or lip-tie: A tongue-tie or lip-tie is a condition where the frenulum (the piece of tissue that connects the tongue or lip to the mouth) is too short or too tight, making it difficult for the baby to latch or suck effectively.
  3. Nasal congestion: If the baby has a cold or other respiratory infection, nasal congestion can make it difficult for her to breathe and feed comfortably, leading to difficulty latching.
  4. Difficulty finding the nipple: Newborn babies may have trouble finding the nipple, especially if it's not positioned correctly or if the mother's breasts are not well-supported.
  5. Mother's nipple shape or size: The shape or size of the mother's nipple can affect the baby's ability to latch. For example, if the nipple is too large or too small, it may be difficult for the baby to get a good seal.
  6. Mother's breast shape or size: The shape or size of the mother's breast can also affect the baby's ability to latch. For example, if the breast is too large or too small, it may be difficult for the baby to get a good seal.
  7. Baby's position: The baby's position during feeding can also affect her ability to latch. For example, if the baby is not positioned correctly or is not held close enough to the mother's body, it may be difficult for her to latch.

If you're experiencing difficulty with your newborn baby not sucking at the breast, here are some things you can try:

  1. Get help from a lactation consultant: A lactation consultant can help you identify the issue and provide guidance on how to overcome it.
  2. Try different latching positions: Experiment with different latching positions to find one that works for you and your baby.
  3. Use a nipple shield: A nipple shield can help the baby latch and feed more comfortably, especially if she's having trouble finding the nipple or getting a good seal.
  4. Express milk: Expressing milk can help the baby get used to the taste and smell of breastmilk, which can make it easier for her to latch and feed.
  5. Try a different feeding position: Try feeding your baby in a different position, such as sitting up or lying down, to see if that makes it easier for her to latch.

Remember, it's normal for newborn babies to have difficulty latching or sucking at the breast, and it's not uncommon for it to take a few days for them to get the hang of it. If you're experiencing persistent difficulty or discomfort, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for guidance and support.