When should you burp your baby?
It is important to burp your baby after each feeding, whether you are breastfeeding or using a bottle. Typically, you should burp your newborn when:
- They have finished feeding on one side while breastfeeding.
- They have finished a certain amount of formula or breast milk while bottle-feeding.
- They are showing signs of discomfort such as fussiness, squirming, or arching their back.
By burping your baby regularly, you can help prevent them from swallowing excess air, which can lead to discomfort and colic.
How to burp a newborn
Here are a few burping techniques that you can try to help your baby release any trapped air:
- Over the shoulder: Place a burp cloth on your shoulder and hold your baby upright with their chin resting on your shoulder. Gently pat or rub their back until a burp is released.
- Sitting on your lap: Sit your baby on your lap in an upright position, supporting their head and chest with your hand. Gently pat or rub their back in an upward motion.
- Face-down on your lap: Lay your baby face-down on your lap, with their tummy resting on your thighs. Support their head and neck with your hand, and gently pat or rub their back.
Experiment with different positions to find what works best for you and your baby. Remember to always support their head and neck during burping to prevent any discomfort.
What to do if your baby doesn’t burp
It is common for babies to not always burp after every feeding. If your baby doesn’t burp, don’t worry too much. Here are a few things you can try:
- Keep them in an upright position for a little longer to allow any trapped air to rise to the top of their stomach.
- Gently move their legs in a bicycle motion to help stimulate digestion and release any gas.
- If your baby appears comfortable and content after a feeding, it is likely that they have successfully released any trapped air.
Remember, every baby is different, and some may require more or less burping than others. Trust your instincts as a parent and consult your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Learning how to burp your newborn effectively can provide much-needed relief and comfort for your little one. By following these techniques and being attentive to your baby’s cues, you can help prevent discomfort caused by trapped air in their stomach. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with time, you and your baby will find a burping routine that works best for both of you.
Happy burping!