Infant Hiccups: Tips for New Parents

Q: Infant Hiccups: Tips for New Parents

Hello： Here are the answers to your questions. 1. Patting the back helps infants release gas and aids digestion. 2. Patting should last about 5-10 minutes, as long as it achieves the desired effect of gas release. 3. If the infant does not burp or swallow

Hiccups in newborns?

Hello Dr.
Hong,
I would like to ask you a question regarding my infant's hiccup issue.
My baby is almost one month old and is currently on formula, consuming about 80 c.c.
every 3 hours.
However, my baby often falls asleep halfway through feeding, continuing to suck even while asleep.
Although he can finish the 80 c.c., whenever I follow the burping techniques from parenting books to help him burp, the patting wakes him up.
After 10 to 20 minutes of patting, he is fully awake and becomes restless, crying and flailing his arms and legs, which leaves me quite exhausted.
If he were simply awake and not wanting to sleep, I could accept that, but I notice he is actually tired and wants to sleep but is unsettled.
I have a few questions for you, doctor:
1.
Is it necessary for an infant to be burped after feeding to help release gas?
2.
How long does the burping process typically take? Is it essential to achieve a burp?
3.
Will an infant always burp after being patted? If they do not burp, should I continue patting?
4.
If my baby falls asleep without being burped, is it better not to burp him to avoid disrupting his sleep?
5.
Does spitting up or vomiting affect an infant's health?
I apologize if my questions seem silly, and I hope you can provide some answers.
Thank you, doctor.

Neophyte, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/08/30

Dr. Hong Shaohui reply Pediatrics

Hello: Here are the answers to your questions.
1.
Patting the back helps infants release gas and aids digestion.
2.
Patting should last about 5-10 minutes, as long as it achieves the desired effect of gas release.
3.
If the infant does not burp or swallow after patting, simply place them in a right-side lying position.
4.
Yes, it is permissible.
5.
As long as the infant does not choke, spitting up and reflux will not affect their health.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2001/08/30

More Info

Understanding infant hiccups and the associated feeding practices can be a challenge for new parents. It’s great that you’re seeking advice to ensure your baby’s comfort and health. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Is it necessary to burp a baby after feeding?
Yes, burping is generally recommended after feeding, especially for infants who are bottle-fed. When babies feed, they often swallow air along with their milk, which can lead to discomfort and gas. Burping helps release this trapped air, reducing the likelihood of fussiness and discomfort. However, if your baby falls asleep while feeding, it’s not always necessary to wake them up to burp.
2. How long should you burp your baby?
The duration of burping can vary. Typically, you should try to burp your baby for about 10 to 20 minutes after feeding. However, if your baby seems content and isn’t showing signs of discomfort, you can stop earlier. The key is to pay attention to your baby’s cues. If they seem uncomfortable or fussy, it might be a sign that they need to be burped.

3. Will every baby burp after being burped?
Not every baby will burp after being burped, and that’s perfectly normal. Some babies may not need to burp every time, while others may require more frequent burping. If your baby doesn’t burp after a few minutes of gentle patting or rubbing, you can stop. Forcing the issue can lead to more fussiness, especially if they are tired.

4. Should you avoid burping if the baby falls asleep?
If your baby falls asleep while feeding, it’s generally okay to let them sleep without burping. Waking them up to burp can sometimes lead to more fussiness. If they seem comfortable, you can let them sleep. However, if they wake up soon after and seem uncomfortable, you might want to try burping them then.

5. Does spitting up or vomiting affect a baby’s health?
Spitting up is common in infants and is usually not a cause for concern unless it is excessive or accompanied by other symptoms like poor weight gain, irritability, or signs of dehydration. Most babies will outgrow this as their digestive systems mature. If your baby is spitting up frequently and seems uncomfortable, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.

In summary, while burping is an important part of feeding, it’s essential to balance it with your baby’s comfort. If your baby is showing signs of tiredness, it’s okay to let them sleep without forcing a burp. Always monitor their overall health and consult your pediatrician if you have concerns about feeding, spitting up, or any other issues. Remember, every baby is different, and finding what works best for your little one is key.

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