Baby Aggressively Rubbing Face Into Shoulder

Baby Aggressively Rubbing Face Into Shoulder

 

Babies can display some unusual behaviors, which may sometimes seem strange to parents. However, many of these actions can be attributed to innate biological behavior and science. While some of these peculiar behaviors can be the baby’s personality quirks, others may be due to reasons such as hunger, seeking comfort, self-soothing, or natural smell.

Rubbing themselves against everything, including their mothers, is one such behavior that babies exhibit, and it is entirely normal. In this article, we explore why babies rub their faces on their mothers’ shoulders and how parents can help their babies.

 

Understanding Why Babies Rub Their Face

Babies rub their faces for a variety of reasons, and understanding why they do so can be helpful in addressing any concerns.

One of the primary reasons babies rub their faces is to self-soothe. When a baby is tired or hungry, rubbing their face against a surface can help provide comfort and calm them down.

This behavior can also be a result of the rooting reflex, which is a natural instinct for babies to seek out a nipple when they are hungry.

Another reason why babies rub their faces is to explore their surroundings. As infants develop their motor skills, they may begin to rub their faces against different surfaces to learn about textures and sensations. This behavior can also be seen as a way for babies to practice using their motor skills, as they learn to control their movements and understand cause and effect.

Babies may also rub their faces when they are crying or experiencing discomfort or irritation, such as from itchy skin or skin irritation. This can be a sign that something is bothering them and they are seeking relief.

In some cases, rubbing their face can also be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as allergies or respiratory issues. It’s important to consult a pediatrician if you notice any other symptoms or concerns.

Overall, understanding why babies rub their faces can help parents and caregivers provide the appropriate care and attention to their little ones. Whether it’s for self-soothing, exploration, discomfort, or rooting reflex, rubbing their face is a natural behavior that is seen in many infants. By paying attention to their cues and seeking medical attention when necessary, parents can help their babies feel safe and comfortable in their environment.

When to be Concerned About A Baby Rubbing Their Face Aggressively On The Shoulder

While it’s common for babies to rub their faces on different surfaces as a self-soothing mechanism, there may be times when this behavior becomes concerning. If you notice that your baby rubs their face into your shoulder or any surface, it could be a sign of discomfort or pain. For instance, babies with itchy or irritated skin may rub their faces excessively, which can cause further irritation and damage to the skin.

In some cases, a baby rubs face aggressively due to a more serious condition. For instance, babies who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues may rub their faces as a way to seek relief from the discomfort or irritation caused by these conditions.

Additionally, babies who are exposed to cigarette smoke or other environmental irritants may also rub their faces more aggressively as a response to the irritation caused by these substances.

If you notice that your baby rubs their face more aggressively or frequently than usual, it’s important to pay attention to any other symptoms or signs of discomfort. For instance, if your baby is also experiencing congestion, coughing, or wheezing, it could be a sign of a respiratory issue.

Similarly, if your baby is exhibiting signs of skin irritation or rash in addition to aggressive face rubbing, it could be a sign of an allergic reaction or other skin condition.

In these cases, it’s important to consult with a pediatrician to determine the underlying cause of the baby rubbing face aggressively and to receive appropriate treatment. The pediatrician may recommend certain medications or treatments to alleviate discomfort or manage the underlying condition.

By addressing the root cause of aggressive face rubbing, parents can help their babies feel more comfortable and at ease in their environment.

How To Help Your Baby If The Rubbing Behavior Is To Self-soothe

If your baby is rubbing their face to self-soothe, there are several things you can do to help them. First, try to identify the reason for their face rubbing, such as hunger or tiredness, and address that issue. If it seems like your baby is rubbing their face out of habit, you can try redirecting their attention with a toy or activity.

Giving your baby a pacifier can also provide comfort and help them self-soothe. Make sure the pacifier is clean and age-appropriate.

Another option is to create a calm and comforting environment for your baby, with soothing sounds or dim lighting. Play soft music, dim the lights, and speak in a soothing voice.

Swaddling your baby can provide a sense of security and comfort. reduce their need to self-soothe. Wrap your baby snugly in a swaddle blanket, making sure their arms are tucked in. This will help prevent them from rubbing their face against something.

If your baby’s face rubbing is due to skin irritation or itchiness, check with your pediatrician for appropriate treatment options. In cases of allergies, eliminating the allergen from the environment may be necessary.

It’s important to note that some babies may rub their faces as a sign of a more serious issue, such as a developmental delay or neurological disorder. If you are concerned about your baby’s face-rubbing behavior, it’s always best to consult with your pediatrician for guidance and support.

Conclusion

In conclusion, rubbing their face is a common behavior exhibited by babies for various reasons, including self-soothing, hunger, tiredness, seeking comfort, or even as a new habit. While it is generally considered normal behavior, parents should monitor their baby’s face rubbing behavior and observe for any concerning symptoms, such as skin irritation, snotty nose, or excessive rubbing.

If the rubbing seems to be causing discomfort or is persistent, it may be worth consulting a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues. Additionally, parents can try to help their baby self-soothe by providing a safe and comfortable environment, using a pacifier, or establishing a consistent bedtime routine to promote healthy sleep habits.

FAQs

Why does my baby aggressively rub her face?

Aggressively rubbing the face is a common self-soothing behavior among babies. This could be due to various reasons such as teething, general discomfort, or seeking comfort. If the behavior seems excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to consult a pediatrician.

Why does my baby rub her face on my shoulder after feeding?

Rubbing the face on the caregiver’s shoulder after feeding may indicate that the baby is seeking comfort or trying to burp. This behavior could also be related to the natural smell of the caregiver or the baby’s self-soothing method. It’s generally harmless and could be a sign of a healthy attachment between the baby and caregiver.

Why does my baby grind his face into my chest?

Grinding the face into the chest could be another self-soothing behavior, seeking comfort or a sign of general discomfort. It could also be related to the baby’s motor skills development or trying to find a safe place to sleep. If the behavior seems excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to consult a pediatrician.

Why does my baby keep rubbing the side of his head?

Rubbing the side of the head is another common self-soothing behavior in babies. This could be due to various reasons such as teething, seeking comfort, or trying to alleviate an itchy or irritated area. If the behavior seems excessive or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to consult a pediatrician.

Sandy

Sandy

This post is written and edited by Sandy who is a clinical pharmacist with over 20 years of experience specializing in pre-natal and post-natal care.