Your baby likely has a suckling blister (also known as a sucking callus) on their lip due to the repetitive and vigorous sucking motion they use while feeding.
Understanding Suckling Blisters
These blisters are quite common in newborns and infants. Here's a more detailed explanation:
-
Cause: The strong sucking action during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can create friction on the lip, leading to the formation of a small, fluid-filled blister. Some babies even develop them in utero from sucking on their hands or forearms.
-
Appearance: Suckling blisters typically appear as a small, raised, white or clear bump on the center of the upper lip.
-
Harmlessness: These blisters are generally harmless and don't cause the baby any pain or discomfort. They're a normal physiological response to sucking.
-
Treatment: Suckling blisters don't usually require any treatment. They will typically resolve on their own within a few days or weeks as the skin toughens up.
-
Do Not Pop: Avoid the urge to pop or squeeze the blister. This can increase the risk of infection.
When to Consult a Doctor
While suckling blisters are usually benign, it's a good idea to consult with your pediatrician if:
- The blister appears infected (redness, swelling, pus).
- Your baby seems to be in pain or is having difficulty feeding.
- The blister is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever or rash.
- You are concerned about the blister for any reason.
In most cases, the blister is simply a sign that your baby is feeding well and will disappear without any intervention.
