Milk feeding and constipation or stomach ache in infants
Infant formula can sometimes cause digestive problems in babies, especially during the first few months, when their digestive system is still developing. Understanding common infant formula problems and knowing how to deal with them can make mealtimes more peaceful for both you and your baby.
Regurgitation
Many babies regurgitate a small amount of infant formula after feeding. While this may be concerning, it is generally benign, especially if your baby is growing well and seems calm.
Common causes:
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Immature digestive system
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Air swallowed during feeding
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Milk flow too fast
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Tension or agitation during feeding
What to do:
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Choose a teat suitable for your baby's age and flow needs (never modify the teat hole yourself).
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Maintain a calm environment before and during feeding.
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Bottle-feed in a semi-upright position and always burp your baby.
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After feeding, briefly lay your baby on their left side.
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If regurgitation persists, talk to your paediatrician: some thickened infant formulas may be considered, but never modify without medical advice.
Flatulence in infants
Gas can cause abdominal pain and irritability. It is often due to an immature gut or a temporary intolerance to the lactose in the infant formula.
Signs:
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Crying or agitation
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Legs tucked towards the tummy
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Hard or tense tummy
What you can do:
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Ask your doctor for advice regarding a low-lactose or lactose-free infant formula.
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Give smaller amounts, more often.
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Keep your baby's head slightly elevated during feeding.
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Burp your baby in the middle and at the end of feeding to reduce swallowed air.
Constipation in newborns
Constipation is more common in formula-fed babies. It presents as hard stools, straining during defecation, or reduced stool frequency.
To relieve constipation:
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Consult your pediatrician: some probiotic-enriched formulas can help.
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Ensure sufficient hydration, especially in hot weather.
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Avoid rice-based cereals, which can worsen constipation.
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Gently massage the belly or perform "bicycle" leg movements to stimulate digestion.
Allergy and infant formula
Some babies may be allergic to cow's milk proteins or other components of infant formula.
Possible signs:
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Diarrhea, constipation, or mucus in stools
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Traces of blood in the diaper
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Bloating, abdominal pain, irritability
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Insufficient weight gain despite regular feeding
If an allergy is suspected:
Consult your doctor immediately. They may recommend a hypoallergenic infant formula. Most babies outgrow allergies over time, but any reintroduction of regular infant formula should be done under medical supervision.
Abdominal pain in newborns
Pain can have several origins: overfeeding, intolerances, allergies, or improper preparation of infant formula.
To relieve your baby:
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Identify common causes (constipation, allergy…).
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Give smaller but more frequent meals.
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Thoroughly clean bottles and use age-appropriate equipment.
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Always follow recommended water and powder dosages.
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Wash your hands thoroughly and sterilize equipment.
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Give the bottle in an upright position and always burp the baby.
Colic
Colic can be challenging for parents. It usually starts in the first few weeks and subsides around 3 to 4 months. Crying often appears at the end of the day and is difficult to calm.
Helpful tips:
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Consult your pediatrician to rule out an allergy or reflux.
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Ensure good bottle-feeding techniques to prevent air swallowing.
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A little tummy time can help release gas and strengthen muscles.
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Stay calm: colic is temporary and will eventually disappear.
Eva Kool
With 15 years of experience as a maternity assistant and a mother of three, I am truly passionate about the world of babies and baby care. At Difrax LOVI, I support professionals and specialized stores as a trainer and advisor, while also assisting the sales & marketing team. My goal is to share my expertise and provide parents with reliable and reassuring information for their baby's well-being.