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Do newborns need to be burped after breastfeeding?

The Importance of Burping Newborns After Breastfeeding
When it comes to caring for newborns, one of the most common questions new parents face is whether they need to burp their babies after breastfeeding. The answer is nuanced, as it depends on various factors including the baby’s feeding habits and individual comfort.
Why Burping Matters
Burping is primarily about relieving discomfort caused by air swallowed during feeding. Babies, especially those who are fast feeders or whose mothers have a rapid milk flow, can ingest a significant amount of air while nursing. This air can accumulate in the stomach, leading to discomfort and fussiness. As a result, burping can help alleviate this discomfort, making it an important practice for many parents.
Breastfeeding Dynamics
Interestingly, the necessity of burping can vary among infants. Some experts suggest that while breastfed babies may not always need to be burped, it is still beneficial to give them the opportunity to do so. This is particularly true for babies who tend to gulp their milk quickly. The act of burping can help release trapped air, which might otherwise lead to a fussy baby.
When to Burp
There are no strict rules regarding when to burp a baby. Some parents find it effective to burp their infants during feeding, while others prefer to wait until after the session is complete. The key is to observe the baby’s cues; if they seem uncomfortable or squirmy, it might be time for a burp.
The Debate on Necessity
While many parents are advised to burp their babies, some recent discussions suggest that it may not be strictly necessary for all infants. Research indicates that for some babies, especially those who are breastfed, burping might not significantly impact issues like colic or spitting up. In fact, some experts argue that burping can sometimes disrupt a baby’s feeding rhythm, waking them up and prompting them to seek comfort again.
Conclusion
In summary, while burping is generally recommended to help relieve discomfort from swallowed air, the necessity can vary from baby to baby. Parents should pay attention to their child’s feeding habits and comfort levels. Ultimately, whether to burp after breastfeeding is a personal choice that can be tailored to each baby’s needs.

Can you overfeed breastfed babies?

Can you overfeed your breastfed baby? It is unlikely that you’ll overfeed your breastfed baby. “Typically your body produces the right amount for your baby,” says Dr. Rosenberg, and “at around two weeks old, babies should be able to self-regulate during breastfeeding,” she adds.

Can a baby choke if not burped while sleeping?

And can go right into the air pipe causing the baby to breathe the spit up into their lungs. So it is always best to put your baby on their back to sleep for all sleeps nap time. And bedtime.

Is it necessary to burp a newborn after breastfeeding?

There are no rules on when you should burp your baby, some babies need burping during their feed, some after. Look for clues – if your baby seems uncomfortable while feeding, have a little burping break. If they seem fine while feeding, wait until they’ve finished. Your baby will let you know!

What happens if you don’t burp a baby?

An important part of feeding a baby is burping. Burping helps to get rid of some of the air that babies tend to swallow during feeding. Not being burped often and swallowing too much air can make a baby spit up, or seem cranky or gassy.

How long do breastfed babies need to be burped?

Always burp your baby when feeding time is over. To help prevent the milk from coming back up, keep your baby upright after feeding for 10 to 15 minutes, or longer if your baby spits up or has GERD. But don’t worry if your baby spits sometimes. It’s probably more unpleasant for you than it is for your baby.

At what age do you stop burping your baby after a feeding?

If you’re burping a newborn after breastfeeding, the baby will typically burp less because they swallow less air. Most babies will outgrow the need to be burped by 4-6 months of age. You can often tell that a baby needs to be burped if he or she is squirmy or pulling away while being fed.

Is it OK to put baby to sleep without burping after breastfeeding?

It’s generally okay for a baby to sleep without burping. But it depends on your baby, how they’re feeling and what they need. So you’ll have to decide on a case-by-case basis, recognizing if they are showing signs of discomfort. Feeding can often have a calming effect on a baby.

Do breastfed babies need to be winded?

Timing breastfeeds
Allow your baby to stay on the first breast for as long as they are feeding. Then take a break, wind your baby if needed and offer the second breast. Many babies can wind themselves while in laid back or upright breastfeeding positions. Some babies only take 1 breast per feed.

Do babies spit up if you don’t burp them?

Not being burped often and swallowing too much air can make a baby spit up, or seem cranky or gassy.

When can I stop worrying about SIDS?

SIDS deaths occur most often during the first year of a baby’s life. About 90% of SIDS deaths occur before the age of 6 months. Generally, after a baby turns 1 year old, parents can be less worried about SIDS.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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