Question
Newborns often bite the mother’s nipple while breastfeeding in the first few weeks after birth. Is this a natural neurological defect or an adaptation to the environment?
Answer
Newborns should suckle correctly, with the lower lip sticking out. Avoid letting the baby tilt their head, instead slightly tilting the head back to promote a smooth breastfeeding process. If the baby does not open their mouth wide, use the nipple to stimulate the lower lip until the baby opens their mouth and quickly place it inside. If the position of biting the nipple is incorrect, use your fingers to push between the baby’s lips or gently press on the lower jaw, or hold the baby tightly with the breast to block their nostrils, forcing them to open their mouth. Additionally, if there is a clicking sound during breastfeeding, it may indicate that a part of the tongue is too tight, and it needs to be flattened frequently.