Burping Baby With Reflux
What is Reflux?
Gastroesophageal reflux happens when food and acid from the stomach goes back up into the esophagus. After food enters the stomach, the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus should close. If this muscle doesn’t open and close at the right time, reflux occurs.
Tips for Burping Baby with Reflux
Reflux can be difficult for your baby as it may cause breathing problems, fussiness, or unhealthy weight loss or gain. But with the right burping procedure, you can help your baby ease their reflux. Here are some tips for helping your burping baby with reflux.
Get your baby in the right position
Place your baby in an upright position to help keep the food in their stomach by gravity. Avoid having your baby in a slouched position since the pressure on their stomach from slouching can push the food out. Keeping your baby in a straight and upright position is especially important after feeding them, but it’s recommended to use this position throughout the day if possible.
Set a burping schedule
Practice burping your baby 2-3 times after each feeding. You don’t necessarily have to give your baby smaller feedings to avoid reflux. If you take the time to help your baby burp after feeding, you can avoid the occurrence of reflux.
Find the right time to burp your baby
When you’re feeding your baby, avoid burping them during the meal. They may have reflux as they eat, but only have them burp when they seem uncomfortable and pauses or looks around as they eat. Unless it’s necessary, avoid interrupting your baby’s feeding rhythm just to burp them.
Different Positions for Burping Baby with Reflux
While the rule of thumb is keeping your baby in an upright position, there are many positions you can do as you hold your baby while keeping their body straight. Here are some positions you can use:
Holding On Your Shoulder
Carrying your baby onto your shoulder is a convenient position you can use when feeding your baby, getting them to sleep, or simply comforting them when they are being cranky. With the pressure on your baby’s tummy from your shoulder, you can help release the gas in their stomach. This position is a great burping position, so make sure to keep a cloth over your shoulder in case your baby spits up.
Rocking On Your Arm
You can achieve this position by turning your baby head down at 45 degrees, so their tummy rests on your forearm. You can allow their legs to dangle on the side of your arm and gently pat their pack until they burp. You can do this while standing or sitting.
Laying On Your Knees
You can also use this position when burping a baby with reflux. While sitting, bring your baby to a lying position with their tummy on your knees. You can move your legs gently to rock them and rub their back until they burp.
Summary
Reflux is common among babies, and it usually disappears between 6 and 12 months. While there’s no need for you to worry much about reflux, it’s best to consult your baby’s doctor and master burping baby with reflux to keep unwanted troubles at bay.
Sources:
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/burping.html