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How long can you keep a breastfed baby upright?

Understanding the Importance of Keeping a Breastfed Baby Upright
For new parents, the question of how long to keep a breastfed baby upright after feeding is a common concern. This practice is not just a matter of comfort; it plays a crucial role in the baby’s digestion and overall well-being.
Recommended Duration
Experts generally recommend that parents hold their baby upright for at least 15 to 30 minutes after each feeding, particularly for infants under three months old. This time frame allows gravity to assist in the digestion process and helps prevent issues such as reflux and discomfort.
The Rationale Behind Keeping Babies Upright
Keeping a baby upright post-feeding can significantly reduce the likelihood of spitting up. Infants have immature digestive systems, and their stomachs are relatively small, making them prone to discomfort if they are laid flat too soon after eating. By maintaining an upright position, parents can help ensure that the milk stays down, which can lead to a more content and settled baby.
Practical Tips for Parents
When holding a baby upright, parents can choose various positions that are comfortable for both themselves and the baby. Cradling the baby against the chest or using a gentle shoulder hold can be effective. Additionally, incorporating gentle movements, such as rocking or walking, can further soothe the baby during this time.
Conclusion
In summary, keeping a breastfed baby upright for 15 to 30 minutes after feeding is a simple yet effective practice that can enhance the feeding experience and promote better digestion. As with many aspects of parenting, observing the baby’s cues and adjusting practices to suit their needs is key. By doing so, parents can foster a nurturing environment that supports their baby’s health and comfort.

Is it OK to lay baby down after breastfeeding?

Wait for signs of deep sleep before laying your baby down. This may take 20-30 minutes. It’s normal for baby to fall into a light sleep while nursing and still need additional time to fall into deep sleep. Consider it extra snuggling time!

How to keep baby upright while breastfeeding?

Have your baby straddle your thigh or place them on your hip. You want their spine and head to be upright as they feed. “This position is going to be more for an older baby,” clarifies Costa. “It’s an easy position to use when you’re out as your child gets older and they can hold their head up.”

What happens if baby’s head flops back?

And don’t fret if your newborn’s noggin flops back and forth a little bit while you’re trying to perfect your move — it won’t hurt him. (Of course, never shake your baby because that can cause serious harm.)

How long to keep a baby upright after breastfeeding?

If your baby tends to spit up a lot, the best rule of thumb is to hold them upright for about 15-20 minutes after feeding them. how much and how quickly they are drinking. If your little one doesn’t spit up a lot then you can just burp them and hold them upright for a 5 minutes or less.

What if baby doesn’t burp and falls asleep?

What to do in this case? A: If your baby falls asleep before burping, gently try to burp them while they are still drowsy. If unsuccessful, it’s generally okay to let them sleep without forcing a burp. Ensure a comfortable sleeping position to prevent discomfort, and try burping after the next feeding.

Does holding a baby upright help with gas?

Hold baby upright after feeding
If your baby is prone to gas, try keeping them upright for about 30 minutes after eating, with their body straight, not seated. Avoid placing your infant on their back right after feeding.

Is it okay to breastfeed standing up?

For babies with reflux, upright or semi-upright positions are best, like the koala hold or laid-back breastfeeding position, since gravity will help with digestion, Sriraman says. “If baby’s reluctant to nurse because of reflux, try standing or walking while breastfeeding,” Nguyen says.

Can you breastfeed baby upright?

The koala hold breastfeeding position is an upright breastfeeding position. Your baby will be resting on your thigh or hip and be facing you with their back and head upright. If you are using this breastfeeding position for a newborn, just make sure to give them enough support.

How long can breast milk sit up?

Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In the freezer for about 6 months is best; up to 12 months is acceptable.

At what age do you stop burping a baby?

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. This being said, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents try to burp their baby: When a nursing mother switches breasts or.

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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