In this episode of The IBCLC Mentor Podcast, Margaret Salty explores the topic of nursing strikes—what they are, why they happen, and how to help breastfeeding dyads navigate this challenging period. Margaret breaks down actionable strategies for resolving nursing strikes and shares a real-world case study of a 10-month-old who experienced a nursing strike after an illness.

Listeners will come away with practical tools, evidence-based insights, and the confidence to support families experiencing nursing strikes.

Key Points Covered:

Understanding Nursing Strikes:

• A nursing strike is a sudden refusal to breastfeed by a previously nursing baby.
• It differs from natural weaning, which is gradual and baby-led.
• Strikes can be temporary and typically resolve with the right support.

Common Causes of Nursing Strikes:

• Illness: Congestion, ear infections, sore throats, or general discomfort.
• Pain: Teething, mouth injuries, or recent vaccinations.
• Stress/Disruptions: Changes in routine, family tension, or overstimulation.
• Negative Associations: Reactions to biting, frustration with poor milk flow, or a stressful nursing session.
• Bottle Preference: Easier milk flow during bottle-feeding when used temporarily.

Strategies for Handling a Nursing Strike:

1. Rule Out Pain/Illness: Assess for teething, ear infections, or other health issues and refer families to healthcare providers as needed.
2. Offer the Breast in Calm Moments: Try nursing when the baby is sleepy, waking up, or in a relaxed environment.
3. Skin-to-Skin Contact: Use skin-to-skin to reestablish a positive breastfeeding connection.
4. Try Different Positions: Upright or side-lying positions may make nursing more comfortable.
5. Maintain Milk Supply: Encourage pumping to protect supply and reduce engorgement.
6. Be Patient and Supportive: Reassure parents that nursing strikes are temporary and manageable.

Case Study: A 10-Month-Old After Illness

• A baby stopped breastfeeding after a viral illness, preferring bottles due to nasal congestion.
• Intervention included skin-to-skin time, upright nursing positions, and reducing bottle flow.
• Within three days, the baby resumed breastfeeding, showing the importance of patience, consistency, and gentle approaches.

Practical Applications for IBCLCs:

• Assess Root Causes: Guide parents in identifying why the baby may be striking.
• Develop a Plan: Provide step-by-step strategies to reintroduce breastfeeding gently.
• Support Milk Supply: Ensure families understand the importance of pumping during this phase.
• Offer Reassurance: Help families feel supported and remind them that strikes are temporary.

Conclusion:

Nursing strikes can be stressful, but with proper support and strategies, they are often resolved successfully. By equipping families with patience, tools, and evidence-based solutions, IBCLCs can play a critical role in helping breastfeeding dyads get back on track.

Jalali, F., Kamiab, Z., Khademalhosseini, M., Daeizadeh, F., & Bazmandegan, G. (2021). Nursing strikes among infants and its affecting factors in Rafsanjan city. Journal of Medicine and Life, 14(1), 56–60. https://doi.org/10.25122/jml-2020-0118

Nayyeri, F., Raji, F., Haghnazarian, E., Shariat, M., & Dalili, H. (2015). Frequency of “nursing strike” among 6-month-old infants at East Tehran health center and contributing factors. Journal of Family and Reproductive Health, 9(3), 137–140.

Resources:

• The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding – La Leche League International: www.llli.org
• KellyMom: Nursing Strikes Overview: www.kellymom.com
• Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocols: www.bfmed.org

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Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

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