How to get your baby to spit up less

How to get your baby to spit up less

Spitting up is a common occurrence for many babies and is often a source of concern for new parents. However, understanding why it happens can help alleviate worries and assist in reducing occurrences. Here’s a guide on the potential reasons for infant spit-up and some strategies to manage it better.

 

Why Babies Spit Up

  1. Immature Sphincters: One of the primary reasons babies spit up frequently is due to their underdeveloped sphincters. This is a muscle at the top of the stomach, and in newborns, it’s not fully matured yet. This immaturity typically resolves by six months and almost certainly by the age of one. Until then, it’s normal for babies to spit up whatever goes down if the sphincter fails to keep it in.

  2. Misinterpreting Baby Cues: Sometimes, we as caregivers might misread a baby’s signals. Hunger cues can sometimes resemble tiredness cues. If we misinterpret these signals, it might lead us to overfeed, which can result in an overflow that’s then expelled.

What You Can Do About It

  • Feeding Responsively: If your baby spits up but is showing signs of hunger, go ahead and offer them more food. However, if they don’t seem hungry after spitting up, there’s no need to insist on another feeding. Recognizing and respecting these cues is key.

  • Learning Baby’s Cues: In both bottle-fed and breastfed infants, understanding when your baby has had enough is crucial. Bottle feeding tends to focus heavily on consuming a specific volume, but if a baby is done, they may grimace or turn away. Similarly, with breastfeeding, babies might pull off or seem disinterested once they’re full.

  • Burping and Offer Gently: After feeding, a gentle burp can help alleviate the build-up of gas and prevent spit-up. Offer more only if the baby seems willing. For breastfed babies, when they start to flutter or slow down sucking, it may be time to consider ending the feeding.

  • Adjusting Feed Environment: Creating a calm and non-distractive environment during feeds can also reduce instances of overfeeding and increase your ability to recognize your baby’s cues.

Conclusion

Spitting up is a normal, albeit messy, part of your baby’s development. By understanding the reasons behind it and learning to read your baby’s cues, you can reduce the frequency of spit-up. Remember, each baby is unique, and over time, you’ll become more attuned to their specific needs.

Should you find yourself with lingering concerns or questions about your baby’s feeding and spit-up habits, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician or a certified lactation consultant. Your healthcare provider can give tailored advice to suit your baby’s needs. And if you have any questions or experiences you’d like to share, please feel free to leave comments below.

 

If you need more support

I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.

If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.

You can find the nurse closest to you here. If you need more help you can reach out to [email protected].

Thank you so much for being a part of our community,

Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP

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