Infant Vomiting: Is Formula Milk the Cause?

Issues with drinking milk and abdominal problems?

Hello Doctor, my baby is now over two months old.
Since birth, he has had a tendency to spit up formula milk.
Currently, we have reduced the amount from 150ml to 90ml, but he still spits up immediately after feeding.
In the past two days, the vomiting has increased and is more forceful, resembling projectile vomiting.
A while ago, an ultrasound report indicated that his stomach was filled with gas.
I would like to ask if the formula might not be suitable, causing him to have gas and spit up? He is currently drinking S26 Platinum formula approximately every 3.5 hours, six times a day.
Is this overall milk intake sufficient for him? We have also been doing tummy massages and using probiotics, yet he still has severe spitting up.
Please advise, thank you.

Ai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/11/19

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello,
1.
If projectile vomiting occurs within three months, be cautious about the possibility of infant hypertrophic pyloric stenosis.

2.
You can visit a pediatric gastroenterology clinic to arrange for abdominal X-rays and ultrasound examinations for diagnosis.

3.
The recommended daily milk intake is 100-200 CC/KG/DAY.
For example, if a child weighs 6 KG, they should consume 600-1200 CC in a day.
If feeding six times a day, this would be 100-200 CC per feeding.

4.
The nutritional value of S26 Platinum is acceptable; however, you may also try switching to a hydrolyzed protein formula to see if it alleviates any gas issues.

Wishing you health, happiness, and safety!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng
Attending Physician, Pediatrics
Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2021/11/19

More Info

Infant vomiting can be a concerning issue for parents, especially when it occurs frequently or in large amounts. In your case, it seems that your two-month-old baby has been experiencing significant vomiting after feeding, even after reducing the formula intake from 150ml to 90ml. This situation raises questions about whether the formula milk is the cause of the vomiting and whether the baby is receiving adequate nutrition.

Firstly, it is important to understand that vomiting in infants can occur for various reasons, and formula milk can be one of the contributing factors. Some infants may have difficulty digesting certain types of formula, which can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, gas, and vomiting. In your case, the ultrasound report indicated that your baby's stomach was filled with gas, which suggests that there may be an issue with gas buildup in the digestive system. This can be exacerbated by the type of formula being used, feeding techniques, or even the baby's feeding position.

The S26 Platinum formula you mentioned is designed to be nutritionally complete for infants, but every baby is different. Some may have sensitivities or intolerances to specific ingredients in the formula, such as lactose or certain proteins. If your baby is experiencing increased gas and vomiting, it may be worthwhile to consult with your pediatrician about trying a different formula, such as a hypoallergenic or lactose-free option, to see if that alleviates the symptoms.

In terms of feeding frequency and volume, it is generally recommended that infants consume about 150-200ml of formula per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into several feedings. At two months old, feeding every 3.5 hours with six meals a day seems reasonable, but it’s essential to ensure that the total daily intake meets the nutritional needs of your baby. If your baby is consistently vomiting, it may be a sign that they are not able to retain enough formula, which could lead to inadequate nutrition.

Additionally, the technique used during feeding can also impact how much air the baby swallows, which can contribute to gas and discomfort. Ensure that the baby is in a semi-upright position while feeding, and consider using bottles that are designed to reduce air intake. After feeding, it is crucial to burp the baby properly to help release any trapped air in the stomach.

If the vomiting persists or worsens, or if you notice other concerning symptoms such as lethargy, dehydration, or poor weight gain, it is essential to seek medical advice promptly. Your pediatrician can assess your baby's overall health, review the feeding practices, and determine if any further investigations or changes in formula are necessary.

In summary, while formula milk can be a source of nutrition for infants, it can also lead to issues like vomiting if the baby has difficulty digesting it. Monitoring the baby's response to the formula, adjusting feeding techniques, and consulting with a healthcare professional are crucial steps to ensure your baby receives adequate nutrition without discomfort.

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