Why is it important for a baby to burp?
Burping Your Baby: Why It's Important and How to Do It
Feeding a baby is an intimate moment together. Yet, such a feeding can also be unsettling, for example, when your baby swallows air. That's why burping your baby is a routine for many parents during or after feeding. It helps your baby get rid of air, keeping their tummy calmer and making them feel more comfortable.
Why is it important for a baby to burp?
When your baby is feeding, he or she sucks on the nipple or breast. In doing so, they swallow not only milk but sometimes air as well. This happens, for example, when your baby drinks quickly, is greedy, or frequently lets go and re-latches. This air enters the stomach and can cause pressure. If your baby can't get rid of the air, they often become restless or experience colic. Some babies cry or spit up more because their stomach feels too full.
Burping your baby on time gives the air a chance to escape. So, burping your baby isn't a mandatory ritual, but rather a practical way to keep your baby comfortable.
When should you burp your baby: before, during, or after feeding?
Many parents wonder when it's best to burp their baby. The timing varies from baby to baby. Burp your baby during feedings if you notice your baby becoming restless , letting go more often, or having trouble feeding. A brief pause will provide a calming effect, after which your baby will often return to feeding in a relaxed manner.
After a feeding is the most common time. You hold your baby close for a moment to see if any air comes out. Sometimes it helps to briefly check before feeding to see if your baby needs to burp. For example, if your baby has just woken up or had a previous feeding where burping wasn't successful.
The different farmer's postures in a row
There are several burping positions for your baby, and it's perfectly normal to find the one that works best for you. Over the shoulder is a common position. Your baby lies upright against you, and you support their head and neck while gently rubbing their back.
Sitting on your lap also works well, especially if your baby prefers not to be over your shoulder. Your baby will sit upright and lean slightly forward while you gently rub their back. You can also place your baby on their tummy in your arm. This feels extra relaxing for some babies, especially if they have colic.
How long should you try to induce a burp?
A burp often comes within a few minutes, but sometimes it takes a little longer. A guideline of about five to ten minutes is fine. After that, you can safely stop, especially if your baby is calm and showing no signs of discomfort.
Not every baby burps after every feeding. Some babies swallow very little air and simply don't need to be burped. This is normal and shouldn't be a problem.
What if your baby doesn't burp?
Sometimes there's little air in the stomach, or the burp doesn't come until later. Feel free to try a different position or take a short break if your baby isn't burping. The most important thing is not to force it. If your baby stays calm, drinks well, and is satisfied afterward, then it's usually all good.
Do you notice your baby crying a lot after almost every feeding, straining, or clearly showing discomfort? Discuss this with your child's health clinic or GP. They can monitor your progress and offer advice tailored to your baby's needs.
Signs that your baby is still retaining air
Sometimes you can tell by the sheer number of things that your baby still has air in their stomach. Your baby might become restless after just a few sips, push away the bottle, or stop drinking repeatedly. Stretching, crying, or a tense tummy can also be signs that air is still trapped.
If you recognize this, burping your baby is often a good way to help them quickly. A burp often provides immediate relief, both literally and figuratively.
Tips for comfortable and safe farming
Burping often works best when your baby feels safe. Therefore, always support their head and neck, especially in the first few weeks. Keep a cloth handy, as some milk may come back up. Gently rub their back and take your time. You don't need to pat hard; a gentle, even motion usually works better.
Do you notice your baby becoming restless or drifting off to sleep? Change their position or take a short break. The more relaxed you remain, the easier it is for your baby to relax.
If you want to make feeding even easier, it's also helpful to find a bottle and teat that match your baby's drinking pace. Do you have questions or need advice about burping your baby? Feel free to contact us.