Breast rejection in a 2-month-old baby?

Seeing your baby refuse the breast is truly worrying, and your concern with conflicting advice from loved ones and the internet is completely natural.

First, know this: sudden breast rejection in a 2-month-old usually isn't "stubbornness" or a "habit" — it's usually a sign of an underlying discomfort. The most common causes are:

• Ear infection: Nursing causes pressure that triggers pain.
• Mouth problems: Thrush (oral yeast) or tender gums.
• Nasal congestion: Baby struggles to breathe while nursing.
• Reflux (GER): Milk irritates the esophagus when swallowing.
• Milk flow speed: Too fast or too slow upsets your baby.

Sudden breast rejection in this age group usually requires pediatric evaluation. Your mother-in-law's experience matters, but you're with your baby every day.

My clear recommendation: See a pediatrician soon. They'll examine your baby's ears, mouth, and general condition to find the cause. Meanwhile:

• Try different nursing positions (semi-reclined, side-lying).
• Create a calm environment; noise and light upset fussy babies.
• Never force; waiting a few hours might help.

If your baby has fever, extreme fussiness, decreased urination (fewer than 6 wet diapers), or seeming pain, don't wait — go to the doctor right away or to the emergency room if it's after hours. With sudden breast rejection, getting checked out in 1-2 days is important.