Some moms experience challenges when trying to feed their babies when they are fussy or distressed. There can be any number of reasons that babies are fussy – it could be a passing phase, a growth spurt, or that “fussy” time of day or managing fast milk flow. Of course, there are situations when this fussiness is a cause for concern such as an undiagnosed tongue tie or baby not gaining weight. Then you should speak to your doctor to discuss these concerns. You may also want to contact a health professional if your baby has signs of an allergy, reflux, illness, or any medical issue that could be causing discomfort. Also, if you are struggling to breastfeed (not uncommon when you are starting) that consulting with a lactation specialist can help guide you and baby through this new journey.

But in most cases, all you need to do is find ways to soothe your baby, and then try again. Here are some tried and true methods to get a fussy baby happily breastfeeding again.

• Skin-to-Skin contact can soothe baby and relax you both.

• Switch sides or try different positions. It could be a simple matter of comfort for both of you.

• Have someone else soothe baby giving mom and baby a break and baby. A few moments of a different perspective for everyone can make all the difference.

• Try movement by rocking baby or using a baby swing for a short calming break.

• Dim the lights and quite the area. Sound and light which feel normal to us may be overstimulating to your baby as they are feeding.

• Burping may an easy answer to fussy feeding. A simple solution to a frustrating situation for the baby.

• Breastfeeding during baby’s sleepy times can be helpful for some babies.

• If your baby is starving and just learning to nurse catching feeding cues early helps keep everyone calm and the experience is better for baby and you.

A fussy baby while breastfeeding can be upsetting and make you feel like you are doing something wrong. However, sticking with the process using these tips as needed could be the answer to happier feeding times ahead.