Baby won't eat from me

[cakeslegs]

The past couple of days we have been pretty sick around here. I thought little man wasn't eating much because he wasn't feeling well. Lately though he cries everytime I try to feed him. I know I have at least a little milk because I am still able to pump (not as much these past couple of days). We attempt all efforts for a good 15 minutes before hubby feeds him out of my stash. Is this like a hunger strike or is he telling me he only wants the bottle now? Should I suppliment with the bottle or strickly stick with the breast? It's all BM but I am worried if he quits feeding off me that I will dry up! HELP

[nellie]

How old is the baby?

[CaptHeather]

I've had problems before when I got really dehydrated from being sick. Also, if baby has congestion, they have a harder time at the breast.

I would recommend trying to clean out the snot before nursing, and make sure you're drinking an insane amount of water yourself.

[Tufftitty]

How old is the baby? If he is quite young (<6 weeks) then introducing the bottle could be causing nipple confusion (http://www.askdrsears.com/html/2/T022400.asp). If he is older, it could be the cold, and doing what pp suggested is the way to go. Another possibility is a nursing strike (http://www.kellymom.com/bf/concerns/baby/back-to-breast.html). Babies don't self wean before one year so it really depends on his age what the most likely issue is.

[cakeslegs]

Thanks guys he's 5 months. I also had the wonderful experience of getting my first menstrual cycle since baby? Does anything think the might have been it? We are back to regular eating and everything is fine. I was able to take away all bottles and strickly breastfeed. Anyway thanks for the great advice everyone!

[tracylee]

glad all went well! hope you stay healthy!