Breastfeeding is a special, nurturing experience that helps create a strong bond between you and your baby. It’s a time of closeness, comfort, and connection—where your baby learns to feel safe, nourished, and loved. But like any journey, it can also come with unexpected challenges. One of the more surprising issues some breastfeeding mothers face is biting. While most older babies never bite the breast that feeds them, some do—and when it happens, it can be shocking and painful.

It’s important to remember that biting is not a sign of misbehavior or rejection. Babies are learning how to use their mouths, exploring sensations, or reacting to distractions or discomfort. Even though it may feel personal at the moment—it’s usually only a phase—and with patience and the right strategies, you and your baby can navigate it safely. In this guide, we’ll explore why babies may bite during breastfeeding, offer practical tips for managing it, and share strategies to prevent it from happening again.

Why Babies Bite and What to Do

Accidental Bites

Most babies bite simply by accident. They don’t mean to bite or hurt you and are often just as surprised and upset as you are that it happened. It can happen at the beginning of a feed when your little one is especially hungry, or if they are feeding in an awkward position.

What to do:

  • Ensure a proper latch: A deep, secure latch is essential to preventing pain during breastfeeding sessions and may help to prevent biting. Pay close attention to how the latch feels—many mothers can feel the tongue slipping just before a bite. If you notice this, gently unlatch your baby before the bite happens.

  • Stay observant: Watch your baby’s jaw and mouth movements closely, especially during the first few minutes of a feed. Early intervention can prevent many accidental bites.

Bites from Distraction

Sometimes, babies bite when they get distracted during a feeding. A sudden noise, movement, or even excitement can cause them to clamp down unexpectedly.

What to do:

  • Feed in a quiet environment: Choose a calm, low-stimulation space for feedings when possible.

  • Provide safe distractions: A bright necklace, soft toy, or small rattle clipped to your nursing bra can help your baby channel their attention safely. Gentle humming, slow rocking or motion during feedings can also keep them engaged.

Boredom or Needing Attention 

Occasionally, biting is a way for babies to get attention or express frustration, especially if milk flow slows near the end of a feed or they’re no longer actively sucking and swallowing.

What to do:

  • Watch feeding cues: If your baby starts feeding less actively, gently break the latch and end the feeding before a bite occurs.

  • Reconnect during feeding: Offer deep eye contact, gentle play, or slow rocking to keep your baby engaged.

  • Take short breaks if needed: If your baby is losing interest or getting distracted, switch sides or consider taking a brief break to give them a moment to refocus before continuing.

First Cold

A stuffy nose can make it harder for babies to latch properly, and they may bite unintentionally as they try to maintain suction.

Tips to manage feedings during a cold:

  • Clear their nose: Use saline spray and gentle suction with a bulb syringe before feeding to help your baby breathe more comfortably.

  • Consult your pediatrician: If your baby is congested or having trouble feeding, check with your baby's healthcare provider for guidance.

Falling Asleep

Sometimes babies bite as they relax and drift off to sleep. During this time, they may loosen their latch or clamp down on the breast.

What to do:

  • Practice mindfulness while nursing: Minimize distractions for yourself and watch your baby’s cues.

  • Gently unlatch: If you notice your baby starting to fall asleep, carefully break the latch to prevent an accidental bite.

Is My Baby Teething?

One of the most common reasons babies bite is teething, which usually begins around 4–7 months of age. As new teeth start to come in, your baby’s gums can become sore, and they may chew or bite to relieve the discomfort.

Signs of Teething

While most teething symptoms are familiar, some might surprise you.

  • Drooling heavily—get ready for lots of bibs!

  • Chewing on hands or toys

  • Swollen or tender gums

  • Fussiness or irritability

  • Changes in feeding rhythms—some want to breastfeed more for comfort, others may pull away

  • Rubbing ears or cheeks on the side where a tooth is coming in

  • Occasional low-grade fever

How You Can Help

You can take steps to soothe your baby’s gums and reduce biting:

  • Offer chilled teething toys or a damp washcloth before nursing

  • Massage the gums with a clean finger

  • Continue to pay close attention during breastfeeding sessions and provide comfort

How to Handle Biting

Stay Calm and React Gently

When your baby bites, it’s best to use a firm, but gentle, “no” and calmly remove them from your breast. Try not to yell or pull them away quickly. This can startle your baby and cause more injury to your nipple.

Break the Latch 

Most babies will unlatch immediately when you respond. If not, pull them closer to you and gently place your finger between their gums to break the latch.

End the Feeding 

Ending the session reinforces that biting stops breastfeeding. You can begin again after a few minutes if your baby is still hungry, or wait a while if they were reaching the end of the feeding before the bite occurred.

Set Clear Boundaries

As your baby grows and begins to understand more, you can start teaching them about boundaries. Offer something safe to bite on instead, like a teething toy. Consistency helps your baby learn that biting is not acceptable.

When Biting While Breastfeeding Continues

Biting is almost always an isolated incident or temporary phase, but if it becomes more frequent or persistent, there are steps you can take to manage it and protect both your comfort and your breastfeeding relationship.

Consider Timing

If your baby tends to bite at certain times of day—like the evening when they’re tired or irritable—try:

  • Anticipating fussy periods and offering your breast before that happens.

  • Offering extra comfort or playtime before feeding to help them settle.

Look for Teething Signs

Persistent biting can often be linked to teething. Being patient and offering regular teething relief, such as chilled teething rings or gentle gum massages, can make feedings more comfortable and reduce biting episodes.

Seek Support

If biting continues despite your efforts, reaching out for help can make a big difference. A lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance, troubleshoot feeding strategies, and help you and your baby get back on track.

Weaning from Breastfeeding 

In rare cases, biting may become persistent enough that you need a temporary break from direct breastfeeding. If your nipple is sore or injured, continuing to breastfeed may be uncomfortable or delay healing. In these situations, exclusively pumping for a short period can help maintain your breast milk supply while giving your body time to recover. Your lactation consultant can work with you to create a plan that meets both your needs and your baby’s.

Remember, breastfeeding is about more than just feeding—it’s a powerful bond you’re building with your baby. Biting is usually a brief passing phase, and with patience, consistent boundaries, and support, you and your little one can move through it together, continuing to thrive and enjoy the closeness that breastfeeding brings.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.