Burping Baby: Here’s All That You Need To Know

Burping Baby: Here’s All That You Need To Know

29 Jun 2022 | 5 min Read

Reema Shah

Author | 740 Articles

You have a newborn at home and you’ve spent half the night rubbing the baby’s back just to hear that one big burp! Yes, your duty as a new parent doesn’t just stop at feeding, rocking the baby to sleep, changing diapers or calming a colic baby. Burping a baby after every feed is another important task for all new parents.

When feeding babies, they also tend to take in some air. This air can leave the baby feeling gassy and uncomfortable if it doesn’t find its way out, which is why burping is important so that they get relief from the pain.

We can understand that it can get frustrating and questions like “When can I  stop burping my baby?” may cross your mind. Here are all the answers you need.

Why Do I Need To Burp My Baby?

When a baby eats or even breastfeeds, they take in some air as well. While breastfed babies take in a little less air normally, they are bound to take some air along with their food irrespective of how you feed them. Hence, this air that they take can make them feel gassy and uncomfortable in case it is not able to find its way out.

At What Age Can Parents Stop Burping Their Baby?

Most babies don’t need to be burped by the time they are six to nine months.

How Frequently Should Parents Burp Their Baby?

According to Healthline, breastfed newborn babies should be burped between switching breasts and after every two to three ounces if bottle-fed. However, burping depends on your child’s particular needs and happens more or less frequently accordingly.

burping tips for parents of a newborn
Watch out for signs of your baby’s discomfort to check if they need to be burped because they are feeling gassy / Credit – Pexels

How Do I Burp My Baby?

Babies can be burped in several ways by holding them in different positions. If you feel that your baby needs to burp, but a certain position isn’t helping, try switching the position. You can either hold them on your shoulders or hold them lower on your chest. You can also rock them on your arms in such a way that the tummy rests on your forearm.

What Are The Signs That My Baby Is Ready To Burp On His/Her Own?

Usually when babies sit up unsupported, they are able to burp on their own. This is when you can stop burping them. However, parents of a newborn burp their babies because they worry that their little one will not be able to release gas on their own. 

However, some babies can burp easily on their own and are usually less gassy. In such cases, you might not need to burp your baby at all during a feed.

when can I stop burping my baby
Burp your baby when you switch breasts when breastfeeding or after every 2-3 ounces when bottle feeding / Credit – Pexels

What To Do If My Baby Isn’t Able To Burp?

Wait for a minute or so before trying to burp your baby. Some babies require more time after feeds, while sometimes they burp on their own before you even burp them.

If your baby does not burp, it might be because they don’t need to at that time. Watch out for any signs of discomfort like if they tend to pull away or give a sudden squirm. You will know that your baby needs help.

What Can I Do If My Baby Is Still Uncomfortable After Burping?

1. Use a Different Bottle

While there is no specific type of bottle that has proven to reduce gas and spit-ups, you can look for ones that help to vent out the excess air from your little one’s stomach.

2. Adjust the Nipple Size

If you’re using a bottle to feed your baby, check the nipple size to find out if it’s the reason for your baby to take some extra air. Go a size up or down accordingly if the bottle’s nipple is releasing milk too slow or too quick.

3. Massage your Baby

Massaging your baby has several benefits including the improvement of their digestive systems and their circulatory systems.  This can hence benefit in easing gas and constipation too. Research hasn’t proven this yet but massage is a great way to bond with your baby.

4. Pedal Baby’s Legs

Lay your child on their back and move their legs the way one pedals a bicycle. This technique can help your little one’s gas work its way out.

5. Switch the Formulas

Try switching to a premixed formula of the same formula that you’ve been using in powder form. It can help ease your baby’s stomach. However, consult with your paedatrician before changing to other formulas. Plus, if you’re breastfeeding, let your doctor know about your diet if you notice that your baby gets bowel problems within a few hours of breastfeeding. 

6. Try Over-the-Counter Products

There hasn’t been any over-the-counter products that have proven to be useful for babies and it’s effectiveness depends on the baby. Hence, it is important that you get your doctor’s approval before doing it. 

Is There A Specific Time When I Can Stop Burping My Baby?

There is no specific time to stop burping a baby since each baby is different when it comes to burping. Over time you will learn what your baby requires.

DISCLAIMER: We have taken steps to check the accuracy of information & practices shared above; however, it is not a replacement for a doctor’s opinion. Please check with either your doctor, or an expert, before trying any suggestion, practice, or medication mentioned here.

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