Condition : Feeding difficulties in babies

Condition Feeding difficulties in babies

What are feeding difficulties in babies?

Every baby feeds differently, but sometimes it can be challenging to ensure they are getting enough nutrients and energy.

Feeding difficulties can include:

reflux (being sick during or shortly after feeding)
falling asleep before taking enough milk
slow to feed (taking more than half an hour)
waking early for a feed
not being satisfied after finishing a feed
reluctance to feed
constant crying (colic)

What causes feeding difficulties in babies?

There is a vast range of issues that can cause feeding difficulties in babies, so it’s always worth talking to your health visitor, midwife, or GP if you have concerns, and they can offer advice.

Often, the cause and solution are quite simple.

For example, if your baby doesn’t finish their bottle because they fall asleep or seem full, they may be taking a lot of air into their stomach and need to be winded or have their nappy changed midway through the feed.

Babies who usually feed well may start refusing feeds if they are not feeling well because of a mild illness like a sore throat or earache, or if they’re distracted or something feels different to them, such as the smell or taste.

Speak to a health visitor or GP if your baby:

starts having reflux after they’re six months old, or if it’s still happening after their first birthday
is losing or not gaining weight
might have an allergy (symptoms can include skin reactions, digestion issues, coughing, wheezing, general discomfort, and refusal to feed)
is often constipated, or if they haven’t pooed for a long time (in babies under eight weeks old, this would be 2-3 days)
has tongue-tie (when the tissue attaching the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short)

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