Baby Aggressively Rubs Face Into Shoulder – What Does It Mean?

Introduction

As a new parent, you’re bound to experience a lot of things that you’re not quite sure about. One of these might be why your baby aggressively rubs their face into your shoulder. Is it a sign of distress? Is it something you should be worried about? In this article, we’ll explore what this behavior could mean.

What is Face Rubbing?

Face rubbing is when your baby rubs their cheek or forehead against your shoulder or another surface. It’s a common behavior in babies and can occur for a number of different reasons.

Comfort

One of the most common reasons that babies rub their faces into their caregiver’s shoulder is for comfort. When they’re feeling overwhelmed or tired, this can be a soothing action that helps them feel safe and secure.

Hunger

Another reason that babies might rub their faces into their caregiver’s shoulder is because they’re hungry. This behavior can be a sign that they’re looking for food and are trying to communicate this to you.

Tiredness

Babies who are tired may also rub their faces into their caregiver’s shoulder as a way of trying to settle themselves down for sleep. This behavior can be a sign that they’re ready for a nap or bedtime.

Overstimulation

Sometimes, babies can become overstimulated by their environment. Face rubbing can be a way for them to try and block out some of the noise and activity around them.

Teething

Teething can also cause babies to rub their faces into their caregiver’s shoulder. This behavior can be a sign of discomfort or pain in their gums.

When to be Concerned

While face rubbing is generally a harmless behavior, there are some situations where it might be cause for concern. If your baby is rubbing their face into your shoulder excessively or aggressively, it could be a sign that they’re in distress or discomfort.

Ear Infection

One possible cause of excessive face rubbing is an ear infection. If your baby is also showing other signs of an ear infection, such as fever, irritability, or difficulty sleeping, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Allergies

Allergies can also cause excessive face rubbing. If your baby is rubbing their face into your shoulder more than usual and is also showing signs of allergies, such as a runny nose or sneezing, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician.

How to Soothe a Baby Who is Rubbing Their Face into Your Shoulder

If your baby is rubbing their face into your shoulder, there are a few things you can do to help soothe them.

Rocking

Rocking your baby gently can help to calm them down and make them feel more secure.

Soothing Sounds

Playing calming music or white noise can also be helpful in soothing a baby who is rubbing their face into your shoulder.

Change of Position

Sometimes, a change of position can help to distract your baby and stop them from rubbing their face into your shoulder.

Conclusion

In most cases, face rubbing is a harmless behavior that babies use to soothe themselves. However, if your baby is rubbing their face into your shoulder excessively or aggressively, it could be a sign of distress or discomfort. By understanding why babies might rub their faces into their caregiver’s shoulder and how to soothe them, you can help ensure that your baby feels safe and secure.