Breastfeeding: why babies may bite and how to stop it

Why do some babies bite when breastfeeding?

If a baby is actively feeding, their tongue covers their bottom teeth, so it’s not possible for them to bite down on the breast (La Leche League, 2018).  

Biting tends happen when a baby isn’t actively feeding, for example at the beginning or end of the feed. They might bite because they (Australian Breastfeeding Association, 2025; Leche League Canada, 2022; La Leche League UK, 2017):

• Have finished feeding and are being playful
• Get distracted and pause feeding
• Are frustrated the milk isn’t flowing quickly enough
• Are trying to slow down milk that is flowing too quickly  
• Have fallen asleep and clench their jaw automatically
• Are frustrated because their nose is blocked by a cold 

Teething and breastfeeding

Babies who are teething can get the urge to bite on things to soothe their sore gums. This may include the breast when breastfeeding (Australian Breastfeeding Association, 2025).

There are lots of ways to soothe gums during teething. A teether or an ice cube wrapped in a flannel to chew on could be offered before a feed, or if a baby bites while feeding (Australian Breastfeeding Association, 2025).

There is little research to show that teething gels work (NHS, 2025). They can contain an antiseptic to numb the gum but it can numb the mouth and throat at the same time. This may affect latch, so use them with caution (La Leche League Canada, 2022).  

What to do if a baby bites

If a baby bites, break the suction between their mouth and the breast with your finger, rather than pulling them away which can cause damage to the breast (La Leche League, 2018).

When a dummy or bottle is used by the baby, make sure they’re not allowed to chew or tug on it (La Leche League, 2018). Take the dummy or bottle away for a minute if the baby chews and tell them ‘no chewing.’

Offering the baby plenty of attention and praise when they don’t bite could encourage them not to. 

How to reduce biting

• If the baby is under four months old, specialist support from a lactation consultant or one of our NCT Breastfeeding Counsellors can help to make sure the positioning means they are feeding effectively.
• For older babies, speaking to a lactation consultant or NCT Breastfeeding Counsellor can also help to check the positioning. An adjustment in breastfeeding position might be needed now the baby has grown or if they have grown teeth (Australian Breastfeeding Association, 2025; La Leche League, 2018).  
• If the baby is frustrated by a slow milk flow to start with, breast compressions or hand expressing a little milk beforehand can help the milk to flow more quickly. If it happens at the end of the feed, swap to the other breast (Australian Breastfeeding Association, 2025; La Leche League Canada, 2022).  
• When the flow is very fast, adjusting the position can help them manage the flow. A lactation consultant or NCT Breastfeeding Counsellor can help suggest positions to try.
• It’s natural for the mother or breastfeeding parent to be worried that the baby will bite again (La Leche League, 2018). However, this can lead to the baby being unsettled and they may try and hold on more. If possible, try to relax so the baby is at ease (Australian Breastfeeding Association, 2015).
• Don’t shout or make a loud noise to stop them biting. This can make the baby bite for the reaction or could lead to breast refusal. Use a finger to break the suction instead and say no firmly but plainly (American Academy of Paediatrics, 2022).
• Pulling the baby into the breast for a second or two (never longer than this) can make it harder for them to breathe through their nose and they should let go of the breast. They will learn to associate biting with not being able to breathe and will stop (La Leche League Canada, 2022).  
• When the baby stops actively feeding or gets distracted, take them off the breast straight away. 

Caring for the nipple when bitten

It is unusual for a baby to actually pierce the skin when biting. If this happens, care for the breast as with a sore or cracked nipple.