Ouch!!! I remember that sound vividly! LOL
Biting during breastfeeding is quite common and yes, it can definitely feel like your nipple is caught in a car door. Not a great feeling.
The first thing to note is, a lot of babies start biting when teething starts around 6 months. So no, your baby means no harm, she or he is only looking for something to soothe the pain and he’ll bite his shoe if you allow it. The 5 tips below will help prevent or at least reduce the bites from your teething baby.
1. Good latch
A baby well-latched to the breast cannot bite your nipple. If the nipple is far back in his mouth, and his lips and gums are about an inch behind the nipple on the areola, then his tongue will stop the bites because it should be between his lower teeth and your breast.
2. End the nursing session when a baby loses interest
WATCH for signs of boredom, watch for tension in baby’s jaw before he starts to bite down, he may pull his tongue back from the proper nursing position over the lower gum/teeth, or, you may notice the intensity of his sucking slows. If you notice any of these warning signs, remove that babe from your breast before the biting starts.
3. No Forced-feeding
Force-feeding can also result in the baby biting. If your baby has had enough, he can bite to let you know he is done. Pay close attention to your baby during feeding and also watch out for signs that he has had enough.
4. Ensure your baby is comfortable
Make sure to hold your baby closer to the breast, so that it is easier for them to latch on. Check if they have latched on properly as soon as you initiate the breastfeeding session.
5. Give Your Baby Something Cold To Chew On Before Feeds
The gums of a teething baby may be sore and he may feel like biting or chewing more. This may make it more likely for your baby to bite your nipple with breastfeeds. Hence, if your baby is teething it can help to offer him something cold to chew on before feeds as it can help relieve his gum soreness and hence could stop him biting. Depending on your baby’s age, you could offer a cold teething ring or a piece of cold fruit for example. – See more at: https://www.bellybelly.com.au/breastfeeding/biting-and-breastfeeding/
