How to help reflux in a breastfed baby?

Understanding Reflux in Breastfed Babies
Reflux, often referred to as gastroesophageal reflux (GER), is a common condition in infants where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. While many babies experience some degree of reflux, it can be particularly concerning for parents when it leads to discomfort or feeding difficulties. For breastfeeding mothers, understanding how to manage reflux can make a significant difference in both the baby’s comfort and the breastfeeding experience.
Signs and Symptoms of Reflux
Breastfed babies with reflux may exhibit several signs, including frequent spitting up, irritability during or after feedings, arching of the back, and difficulty sleeping. While occasional spitting up is normal, persistent symptoms may indicate a more serious condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Optimizing Breastfeeding Techniques
One of the most effective ways to help manage reflux in breastfed babies is to ensure that breastfeeding is optimized. This includes making sure that the baby is latched correctly and that the mother’s breasts are well-drained after each feeding. A well-drained breast can help ensure that the baby receives the right amount of milk without overfilling the stomach.
Frequent, Smaller Feedings: Offering smaller, more frequent feedings can also be beneficial. This approach helps prevent the stomach from becoming overly full, which can exacerbate reflux symptoms. Breastfed babies naturally take in smaller amounts, but adjusting feeding schedules to offer milk more often can help manage reflux.
Burping Techniques
Burping the baby during and after feedings is crucial. Trapped air can contribute to discomfort and worsen reflux symptoms. Parents should aim to burp their baby at least once during a feeding and again after the feeding is complete.
Positioning During and After Feedings
The position in which a baby is fed can significantly impact reflux. Keeping the baby in an upright position during feedings and for at least 30 minutes afterward can help reduce the likelihood of reflux. This positioning allows gravity to assist in keeping the stomach contents down.
Dietary Considerations for Nursing Mothers
For breastfeeding mothers, certain dietary adjustments may also help alleviate reflux symptoms in their babies. While the effectiveness of elimination diets can vary, some mothers find that avoiding common allergens or irritants—such as dairy, caffeine, and spicy foods—can lead to improvements in their baby’s reflux symptoms. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If a baby shows persistent signs of discomfort or if the reflux seems to interfere with feeding and growth, it is important to consult a pediatrician. In some cases, medical interventions may be necessary, including medications that reduce stomach acid production.
Conclusion
Managing reflux in a breastfed baby can be challenging, but with the right techniques and support, many families find effective ways to cope. By optimizing breastfeeding practices, adjusting feeding schedules, and considering dietary changes, parents can help their babies feel more comfortable and enjoy a more positive breastfeeding experience. If concerns persist, seeking professional guidance is always a prudent step.

How to help an infant with reflux?

Feed your baby in an upright position.
Then, hold your baby in a sitting position for 30 minutes after feeding. Gravity can help stomach contents stay where they belong. Be careful not to jostle or jiggle your baby while the food is settling.

How did I cured my baby’s reflux?

Your baby’s doctor or health care provider may suggest making these lifestyle changes to help with their symptoms:

1. Change their diet.
2. Do not smoke around them.
3. Burp them more often.
4. Hold them upright for 20 to 30 minutes after they eat.
5. Place them on their back to sleep. Your baby should always sleep on their back.

Which breastfeeding position is best for reflux?

Koala-hold position is good for babies with reflux, an ear infection, tongue-tie, low muscle tone, hip dysplasia or oversupply of breast milk. This position is easier for babies who can sit unaided. You can use this position with a newborn if you give your baby plenty of support.

How do I put my baby down with reflux?

Put Them to Sleep on Their Back
The best sleeping position for babies with reflux and gassy babies is always flat on their backs on a firm surface. This is by far the safest sleeping position for babies, despite concerns that a baby with reflux may choke or vomit while sleeping.

Can gripe water help with reflux?

Gripe water can also be a great way to ease the symptoms of acid reflux in infants. It is a natural approach to help reduce the stomach acid that causes pain. The mixture of herbs is designed to soothe and relax the infant’s developing digestive system.

What foods make reflux worse in breastfed babies?

Citrus fruit, tomatoes, caffeine containing drinks (tea, coffee, coke) and chocolate may also need to be avoided by the breast-feeding mother of a reflux baby. Remember that all babies are different and different babies react to different foods – the list above is a guideline only.

Do gas drops help with reflux?

OTC gas remedies for babies made with ingredients like simethicone may not specifically help with reflux, but they can relieve gas symptoms that could make the problem worse.

What will immediately help acid reflux?

Antacids such as Tums, Mylanta, Maalox, Pepto-Bismol, Alka-Seltzer, Gelusil, and others can quickly relieve heartburn within a few minutes. Over-the-counter H2 blockers such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB), nizatidine (Axid AR), and famotidine (Pepcid AC) decrease stomach acid production.

Does a pacifier help with reflux?

It’s a common belief that using a dummy helps soothe babies with reflux. With acid reflux this is another big no no! Apart from teaching your baby the wrong association; sucking creates wind, stimulates stomach acid and adds fuel to the fire with reflux.

How to treat reflux in a breastfed baby?

Helping your baby with reflux

1. get advice about your baby’s breastfeeding position.
2. hold your baby upright during feeding and for as long as possible after feeding.
3. burp (or wind) your baby regularly during feeds.
4. make sure your baby sleeps flat on their back (they should not sleep on their side or front)