Why would a three-month-old baby suddenly stop breastfeeding?

Generally, a three-month-old child suddenly refusing to breastfeed may be due to reasons such as the nursing strike phase, lack of hunger, indigestion, herpes, or peptic ulcer. If the child shows signs of discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended for targeted treatment under a doctor's guidance. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Nursing Strike Phase

The nursing strike phase is a common phenomenon during growth and development, usually occurring between 3-6 months of age. As the child's senses and attention begin to develop, they become curious about their surroundings, which may temporarily reduce their interest in breastfeeding. Trying different breastfeeding positions and methods might help identify the child's preferred way of feeding.

2. Lack of Hunger

This may be due to overly frequent feedings, excessive milk intake, or reduced physical activity, causing the child to feel full and not hungry before feeding. Adjust the feeding amount and frequency according to the child's needs and age. Burping the child appropriately after feeding helps release gas.

3. Indigestion

Improper feeding, intestinal flora imbalance, allergies, and other factors may cause indigestion in infants. During indigestion, the child's gastrointestinal function may be impaired, preventing normal digestion and absorption of food, leading to feelings of fullness and discomfort, which may cause the child to suddenly refuse to feed. Symptoms may also include bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, irritability, and crying. Treatment may include medications such as Pediatric Compound Chicken Gold Powder, Composite Rennin Capsules, and Clostridium Butyricum Powder, as directed by a physician.

4. Herpes

Herpes is usually caused by viral infections, such as herpes simplex virus. Infants may contract the virus through contact with the saliva, skin, or respiratory secretions of infected individuals. Herpes may cause pain and blisters in the infant's mouth or throat, affecting swallowing and appetite, leading to refusal to breastfeed. Symptoms may also include fever, drooling, and irritability. Treatment options include Acyclovir Cream, Mecobalamin Tablets, and Valacyclovir Hydrochloride Granules, as prescribed by a doctor.

5. Peptic Ulcer

Excessive gastric acid secretion, infection, stress, and other factors may damage the gastrointestinal mucosa in infants, leading to peptic ulcers. Peptic ulcers may cause gastrointestinal pain and discomfort, affecting appetite and digestion, which may lead to the infant refusing to feed. Symptoms may also include crying, refusal to eat, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment options include Cimetidine Injection, Belladonna Tablets, and Cimetidine Tablets, as directed by a physician.

In daily life, create a quiet and comfortable feeding environment. Monitor the child's eating and bowel movements, and adjust the diet accordingly.