Burping your newborn is an essential part of feeding, but many new parents are unsure of when and how to do it properly. After every feeding, babies can swallow air, which might cause discomfort, gassiness, and even pain. Burping helps release that trapped air, making your baby feel more comfortable and preventing fussiness. But how often should you burp your newborn? When is the best time to do it? And how can you tell if your baby needs burping?
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about burping your newborn—when to do it, the different techniques, and how to tell if your baby needs a burp.
Why Burping is Important
Burping helps your newborn get rid of the air they swallow while feeding. When babies feed, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, they can take in small amounts of air along with the milk. This air can make their tummy feel full or uncomfortable, causing them to cry or seem fussy.
Babies who don’t burp after feeding may have more trouble sleeping or seem irritable. Some may even experience discomfort that can make them spit up more. Burping your baby helps release this air and can give them more comfort after they eat.
When to Burp Your Newborn
Knowing when to burp your newborn is an essential part of making feeding time go smoothly. Here are a few key moments when you should think about burping:
1. After Every Feeding
One of the most common practices is to burp your baby after every feeding session. This applies whether you are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Newborns can take in air during feeding, and burping helps to release that air before they are done. For many babies, a burp will come easily after they eat.
2. During the Feeding (for Bottle-feeding)
For bottle-feeding, burping can be done during the feeding session itself. This is especially true for babies who tend to suck in a lot of air while drinking from a bottle. A good rule of thumb is to burp your baby halfway through the bottle. This can prevent your baby from swallowing too much air before finishing the feed. If your baby starts getting fussy or seems to be slowing down, it’s a good idea to try burping and see if it helps.
3. If Baby Is Fussy or Seems Uncomfortable
If your baby seems uncomfortable, squirming, or crying after feeding, it may be a sign that they have air trapped in their stomach. In such cases, it’s a good idea to try burping them, even if you haven’t done so already. Sometimes babies just need a little help to get rid of the extra air.
4. If Baby Hasn’t Burped After a While
Sometimes, babies don’t burp immediately after feeding. If your baby seems satisfied and isn’t showing signs of discomfort but hasn’t burped yet, you can still try burping after a few minutes. Waiting around 10-15 minutes after the feeding session may be a good time to see if your baby is ready to burp.
How to Burp Your Newborn
Burping techniques vary from baby to baby, but there are a few common positions that parents use to help get that burp out. Below are some of the most popular and effective ways to burp your newborn.
1. Over the Shoulder
One of the most common methods is to hold your baby over your shoulder. To do this:
- Place your baby upright on your shoulder so that their chin rests on the top of your shoulder.
- Support your baby’s bottom with one hand while gently patting their back with the other hand.
- Keep your baby’s head and neck supported and ensure they are secure in this position.
This position works well because the pressure on your baby’s tummy is gentle, and the upright posture makes it easier for them to release any trapped air.
2. Sitting on Your Lap
Another technique is to have your baby sit on your lap. To burp them in this position:
- Sit your baby upright on your lap with their legs straddling your waist.
- Support their chest and chin with one hand, while gently patting their back with the other.
- Make sure your baby is sitting straight to allow the air to move upward and out.
This method is comfortable for both the parent and the baby, especially if the baby is a bit older and can hold their head up.
3. Laying on Your Lap
You can also lay your baby across your lap while burping them. This is a great option if your baby is having trouble burping in an upright position. Here’s how:
- Lay your baby on their tummy across your lap, with their head slightly higher than their chest.
- Gently pat or rub their back with your palm or fingers.
- Be sure to support your baby’s head so they don’t strain their neck.
This position is effective for babies who may need extra help in releasing the air. It also helps calm babies who might be a bit fussy.
4. Tummy Time
Tummy time can also help some babies release gas. After a short feeding, place your baby on their stomach for a few minutes. This position can relieve pressure in the tummy and help them burp. However, tummy time should always be done under supervision to ensure your baby is safe.
Signs Your Baby Needs to Burp
Sometimes, your baby may not give you obvious signs that they need a burp. However, there are a few behaviors to watch out for that might indicate that air is trapped in your baby’s tummy.
1. Fussiness or Crying
If your baby is crying or seems fussy after feeding, it could be due to gas. While crying can also be caused by hunger or discomfort for other reasons, it’s worth trying to burp your baby if they are upset.
2. Squirming and Arching the Back
Some babies squirm or arch their back when they are feeling uncomfortable due to trapped gas. If your baby does this, try burping them to see if it helps relieve their discomfort.
3. Pulling Away from the Breast or Bottle
If your baby pulls away from the breast or bottle during feeding, it could be a sign that they are swallowing air. Take a moment to burp your baby, then offer the breast or bottle again to see if they want to continue feeding.
4. Spitting Up or Vomiting
Some babies spit up after feedings. While this can be normal, excessive spit-up or vomiting could be due to gas buildup. If your baby spits up frequently after feeding, it may help to burp them more often during the feeding.
How to Avoid Over-Burping
While it’s important to burp your baby regularly, it’s also possible to overdo it. Here are a few tips to make sure you’re not burping too much:
Don’t interrupt feedings too often: If your baby is feeding well and doesn’t show signs of discomfort, avoid excessive burping sessions during the feeding.
Burp gently: Don’t force your baby to burp if they don’t seem to have gas. Too much pressure can make your baby uncomfortable.
Know your baby: Every baby is different. Some babies may need to burp more often than others, while some may only need to be burped occasionally.
Conclusion
Burping your newborn may seem like a simple task, but it’s an essential part of helping them feel comfortable after feeding. By knowing when to burp, how to do it correctly, and watching for signs that your baby needs to burp, you can help ensure that your baby is comfortable and happy after meals. Each baby is unique, so don’t worry if your newborn doesn’t burp every time—just keep an eye out for signs of discomfort and try burping them if needed.
With a little practice, you’ll soon know exactly when and how to help your baby release any trapped air, making feeding time more enjoyable for both of you.
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