Why it happens
The medical term for ‘spitting up’ is reflux. Babies have immature digestive systems. The muscles at the base of a baby’s esophagus have yet to fully develop. The food in the stomach comes back up the esophagus.Another factor contributing to the eruption is that, basically, the baby is overflowing. The baby has taken in too much food and is brimming over. Often, it’s caused by sucking in air. When babies are nursing, either from the breast or a bottle, they draw in air at the same time. When a baby burps that air often comes up with liquid.
How to have less mess
Avoid overfeeding. Instead of larger meals, give your baby smaller, more frequent feedings. Feed calmly. If your baby is frantically hungry, or crying and gulping, she’ll be taking in more air. Keep the feeding calm and as leisurely as possible. Do your best to eliminate distractions. Don’t jostle. Minimize moving your baby too much during and after feeding. Don’t walk around or rock. Sit baby up Feeding while your baby is lying down or reclined worsens the problem. Keep your baby as upright as possible during meals. Burp often. If bottle-fed, burp your baby every three or four minutes during feedings. Check the bottle’s nipple. See that it is neither too big nor too small.Too small will make your baby suck in harder and draw in more air. Too large can lead to their feeding too fast and often too much.
When to call the doctor
Spitting up is normal, although it can be distressing for parents. If, however, your baby exhibits any of the following, call your doctor.- Is not gaining weight.
- Vomits forcefully.
- Is not wetting many diapers.
- Seems overly tired.
- Gagging or choking.
- Spits up brown or green liquid.
- Wheezes, coughs or makes hoarse-sounding cries.
