Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Is it normal to hear babys stomach gurgling while feeding?

Is it normal to hear babys stomach gurgling while feeding?

Understanding Baby’s Stomach Gurgling During Feeding
Hearing a baby’s stomach gurgling while feeding can be a common experience for many parents, often leading to questions and concerns about their child’s health. However, this phenomenon is generally considered normal and is usually nothing to worry about.
What Causes the Gurgling Sounds?
The gurgling noises that parents hear are primarily the sounds of the baby’s digestive system at work. As babies feed, their stomachs process the milk, and the movement of food through the intestines can create these audible sounds. This is a natural part of digestion, indicating that the baby’s gastrointestinal tract is functioning properly.
In the early stages of life, a baby’s digestive system is still maturing, which can lead to more noticeable sounds. The gurgling can be attributed to the movement of liquid and gas as it travels through the intestines, a process that is often amplified in infants due to their smaller body size and thinner abdominal walls.
When Should Parents Be Concerned?
While stomach gurgling is typically benign, parents should remain observant. If the gurgling is accompanied by other symptoms such as excessive crying, signs of discomfort, or changes in feeding patterns, it may warrant a consultation with a pediatrician. These could indicate potential digestive issues or allergies that might need to be addressed.
The Positive Side of Gurgling Noises
Interestingly, the presence of gurgling sounds can also be seen as a positive sign. It suggests that the baby’s digestive system is actively processing food, which is essential for their growth and development. In fact, many pediatricians reassure parents that these noises are a normal part of a baby’s feeding experience.
In conclusion, while the sounds of a baby’s stomach gurgling during feeding can be surprising, they are generally a normal aspect of digestion. Parents can take comfort in knowing that these noises are a sign of their baby’s digestive system at work, contributing to their overall health and well-being.

Why does my baby growl when feeding?

Some babies get acid reflux. This can cause gurgling and grunting sounds during digestion. The muscles of your baby’s digestive system are still developing, so the muscle between the stomach and esophagus doesn’t always remain closed properly.

When should I worry about stomach gurgling?

Dr. Alsheik recommends seeing a doctor if you have bothersome stomach noises along with any of these symptoms: High-pitched stomach noises. Abdominal pain. Cramping.

What is silent reflux in babies?

Sometimes babies may have signs of reflux but will not bring up milk or be sick. This is known as silent reflux.

What noises should a baby make while feeding?

Listen for a “ca” sound. You will hear this more easily when your milk increases. Sometimes you may hear your baby gulping, especially if you have lots of milk. Clicking or smacking sounds may mean that your baby is not latched correctly.

Is it normal to hear gas in baby’s stomach?

For breastfed babies, gas might be caused by eating too fast, swallowing too much air or digesting certain foods. Babies have immature GI systems and can frequently experience gas because of this. Pains from gas can make your baby fussy, but intestinal gas is not harmful.

How do you know if formula isn t agreeing with baby tummy?

Vomiting. Blood or mucus in your baby’s stool. The baby often pulls her legs up toward her belly because of pain. Difficulty with weight gain or noticeable weight loss.

Why can I hear my baby’s stomach when she eats?

These sounds are usually normal, and they typically indicate food is passing through the intestines, according to Seattle Children’s Hospital. However, stomach gurgling accompanied by other symptoms (like fusiness or signs of discomfort), may indicate gas.

Why does my baby’s stomach growl while drinking formula?

Common causes of gas discomfort in formula or bottle-fed babies: Incorrect latch on the bottle nipple leading your baby to swallow too much air. Excessive crying that fills your baby’s belly with air. Constipation.

Why does my baby’s belly make noises when feeding?

They could be feeding in an awkward position, eating too fast, eating too much, ingesting too much lactose (found in foremilk), swallowing air from a baby bottle, or they could have a slight intolerance to proteins found in breast milk. Remember, your baby’s digestive system is still developing too.

Why does my baby grumble while eating?

Why do newborn babies grunt? Usually, newborns grunt when they learn how to pass stool. However, newborn grunting can occasionally indicate a health issue, such as trapped mucus, gastroesophageal reflux, or irregular breathing.

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.

Leave a Comment