Why do I hate breastfeeding my toddler?

It might be nursing aversion and agitation (NAA).

What does nursing aversion feel like?

- Skin crawling sensation during nursing - Disgust with breast/ chest feeding your child - Irritation or even rage during a nursing session

How does nursing aversion and agitation affect you?

Many nursing parents feel guilt or shame over their nursing aversion. You may feel that you would rather feel actual pain with breastfeeding/ chestfeeding rather than deal with aversion.

What can make NAA worse?

Dehydration

Lack of sleep

PMS

Pregnancy

Past trauma (especially sexual)

Tandem feeding parents may feel aversion toward their toddler but not their younger baby.

Tips to ease nursing aversion

Go to ged earlier / get more sleep

Chelated magnesium supplements

Drink lots of water

Therapy, mindfulness practices, and even yoga

Support for nursing aversion and agitation

Nursing aversion does not make you a bad parent. It is not your fault that you have these intense feelings. There is help for NA, and if you need to wean, that's a valid choice too.

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