For new parents, taking care of a baby is already overwhelming, and when it comes to feeding time, they have a lot of questions: Is my baby getting enough milk? Are they comfortable after a feed? Why do they sometimes cry or squirm soon after eating?
Getting a baby to latch, whether they are breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can be tough enough, but there is also a possiblity that they swallowed air while feeding. Babies, especially newborns, can take in small amounts of air while eating. They are still learning to coordinate sucking, swallowing, and breathing, and their digestive systems are developing too. As a result, some babies may become uncomfortable when they have swallowed air and are unable to release it easily. It can also cause them
to throw up, which means you may have to feed them again.
This is where burping can help! It can reduce tummy pressure, ease colic pain, and sometimes ease crying. It allows the baby to release some of the air swallowed during feeding and may help them feel more comfortable.
While it is something that all Indian parents do, not every baby needs to burp after every feed, but it can be a useful part of the routine. We speak to Dr Shivakumar Sambargi, Head of Department & Senior Consultant – Paediatrics & Neonatology, Sakra World Hospital, Bengaluru, who shares 3 reasons why parents may want to make time for a gentle burp.
Helps Relieve Baby’s Discomfort
When a baby swallows air during a feed, the air can remain in the stomach and contribute to a feeling of fullness or discomfort. Some babies may show this by squirming, becoming restless, arching their back, pulling their legs towards their tummy, or crying after a feed. A gentle burp may help release some of this swallowed air and allow the baby to settle more comfortably.
Parents can hold their baby upright against their shoulder or chest while supporting the head and neck and gently pat or rub the back. There is no need to pat hard or repeatedly, the aim is simply to help the baby release air comfortably.
Helps With Post-Feed Fussiness
A baby who is uncomfortable after feeding may become fussy or difficult to settle. While swallowed air can sometimes contribute to this, it is important to remember that gas is not the only reason a baby cries. Hunger, tiredness, a wet diaper, overstimulation, or simply wanting to be held can all make a baby unsettled. Taking a short pause to burp can therefore be one simple step parents can try when their baby seems uncomfortable after a feed. If they continue to cry, parents should look for other possible reasons rather than assuming that gas is always responsible.
Make Feeding More Comfortable For Baby
A short pause during a longer feed may allow them to burp before continuing. For bottle-fed babies, parents can also pay attention to feeding position and technique. Holding the baby comfortably and ensuring the bottle is positioned appropriately can help reduce unnecessary air intake. For breastfeeding babies, a comfortable and effective latch is also important. If your baby is feeding comfortably, gaining weight appropriately, and remains content, there may be no reason to worry if they do not burp every time.
Safe Burping and Post-Feed Care
There is no single correct position for burping a baby. Parents can hold the baby upright against their shoulder, sit them upright on their lap while supporting the head, neck, and chin, or place them tummy-down across their lap while keeping the head well supported. Never shake, bounce forcefully, or pat a baby hard in an attempt to make them burp. However, when it is time to sleep, always place the baby on their back on a firm, flat sleep surface. A baby should never be placed on their tummy or left sleeping in an inclined position since they didn’t burp.
When Should Parents Consult a Paediatrician?
Burping can help with ordinary feeding-related discomfort, but parents should not assume that every episode of crying, vomiting or feeding difficulty is caused by gas.
Parents should seek medical advice if their baby:
● Vomits frequently or forcefully
● Refuses feeds or is feeding significantly less than usual
● Is not gaining weight appropriately
● Has persistent or inconsolable crying
● Has difficulty breathing
● Appears unusually sleepy, weak, or unwell
Remember, every baby is different. Some babies burp easily, while others may rarely burp and remain perfectly comfortable. As a parent, your goal is simply to understand your baby’s usual feeding and behaviour and learn about their uneasiness.
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