If your little one is suddenly refusing the breast, you’re not alone….what you’re experiencing is called a nursing strike. Even as a lactation consultant, my son decided to teach me all about these. So it's not anything you did, it just happens! They typically occur around the 3-4 month mark, when your baby is prone to distraction and starts developing preferences. Unlike weaning, which is gradual and permanent, a nursing strike is usually temporary and can be tied to something small that threw your baby off rhythm. My son’s was prompted by a little cold, making it tough for him to breastfeed.
The good news? With a little patience and gentle strategies, most babies return to breastfeeding within a few days. Let’s walk through what’s happening and how you can help your baby feed again.
What is a nursing strike?
A nursing strike is when a baby who has been breastfeeding well, suddenly refuses to nurse. It can be stressful, especially when your baby is hungry and you’re worried about your milk supply. But strikes are common, and they do not mean your breastfeeding journey is over.
Common triggers include:
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Age-3-4 months is a common time for this because your baby’s awareness changes so much around this time
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A cold, stuffy nose, or ear infection
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Changes in routine (travel, going back to work, new caregiver)
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A strong reaction during feeding (a startle, loud noise, or even a bite leading to mom’s startled yelp)
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Changes in smell or taste (new lotion, perfume, or even ovulation)
How do I feed my baby during a nursing strike?
When your baby won’t latch, it’s important to balance two goals: keeping your baby fed and protecting your milk supply.
There are a few tricks but the key here is usually feeding them while they are drowsy. Do you remember in those early days, when you would do everything to wake them up for the feed? Well now you do the exact opposite!! Haha. Get them out of a nap, keep the room dark, white noise on and put them straight to the breast! The less distractions, the better! The sleepier they are, the better!
Here are other tips to remember during a nursing strike….
1. Offer expressed milk
If your baby is upset at the breast, pump or hand express and offer milk in a way that feels calm:
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Cup, spoon, syringe, or paced bottle feeding
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Skin-to-skin contact before or during feeding to keep the breast connection positive
2. Protect your milk supply
Hands-on-pump on your baby’s normal schedule. This keeps milk production steady until your baby is back at the breast.
3. Keep the breast a happy place
Take the pressure off. Try:
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Skin-to-skin snuggles without expectation of feeding
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Naps together!
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Rocking, walking, or using a sling (like The Lolo) to calm your baby before offering the breast
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Nursing when baby is sleepy or just waking, when reflexes often override resistance
5. Other tricks to try:
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New positions…side lying can be helpful to minimize distraction and promote relaxed, drowsy feeds
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Try feeding in a Carrier- Try when they are bouncing, and about to fall asleep
4. Stay patient and flexible
A strike can feel discouraging, but most babies return to nursing with time and patience. Offer often, keep the environment calm, and trust the process.
How long does a nursing strike last?
Most nursing strikes last a few days, sometimes up to a week. If your baby isn’t taking in enough milk by alternative methods or you’re worried about hydration (fewer wet diapers, lethargy, dry mouth), reach out to your pediatrician and/or IBCLC right away.
FAQ
Is this weaning?
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Usually not. Weaning is gradual and self-led (or parent-led). A sudden refusal to nurse is more likely a strike.
Should I force my baby to the breast?
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No. Forcing can create negative associations. It’s also hard to get a letdown when your babies are crying. Instead, focus on comfort, skin-to-skin, and offering without pressure.
What if the strike doesn’t end?
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If your baby continues to refuse the breast after several days, or if you notice signs of illness, seek support from your pediatrician or a lactation consultant.
The Bottom Line
A nursing strike can feel overwhelming in the moment, but it’s usually just a temporary pause. Babies are remarkably adaptable, and with gentle patience, most find their way back to breastfeeding. Remember: keeping your baby fed and keeping your connection strong are the priorities.
