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Is one burp enough after feeding baby?

Understanding Burping After Feeding
When it comes to feeding infants, burping is a common practice that many parents engage in to help alleviate discomfort caused by swallowed air. However, the question of whether one burp is sufficient after feeding a baby is nuanced and varies from child to child.
The Role of Burping
Burping serves a crucial purpose: it helps release air that babies often swallow during feeding. This air can lead to discomfort, fussiness, and even spitting up if not expelled. While some babies may require more frequent burping, others might be perfectly fine with just one good burp. According to experts, there are no strict rules governing how often or when to burp a baby; some infants may need to be burped during the feeding, while others may only need it afterward.
Is One Burp Enough?
The consensus among parenting experts is that a single, loud burp can often be sufficient. Many parents wonder if they should continue burping their baby for an extended period, typically around 5 to 10 minutes, even after a successful burp. However, if a baby gives a nice, loud burp shortly after feeding, it is generally acceptable to stop burping at that point.
That said, the comfort of the baby should be the primary concern. If the baby seems content and is not exhibiting signs of discomfort, then one burp may indeed be enough. Conversely, if the baby appears fussy or uncomfortable, additional burping may be warranted.
Factors Influencing Burping Needs
Several factors can influence how much burping a baby may need. For instance, babies who are bottle-fed may swallow more air than those who are breastfed, potentially requiring more frequent burping. Additionally, babies with conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may benefit from being kept upright for longer periods after feeding, which can help reduce spitting up.
Conclusion
In summary, while one burp can often suffice after feeding a baby, it ultimately depends on the individual child. Parents should pay attention to their baby’s cues and comfort levels. If a baby seems content after a single burp, there’s no need to continue the process unnecessarily. However, if discomfort persists, further burping may be beneficial. The key is to remain attentive to the baby’s needs, ensuring a comfortable feeding experience.

How many burps are normal for a newborn?

Newborns will often feed for 20-30 minutes with one or two breaks to burp and another burp at the end of the feed. Feeding times will decrease as your baby becomes better at feeding. Most infants will find a rhythm, repeating their feeding routine every 21/2-31/2 hours.

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.

Is it OK to put baby down right after burping?

Even if your baby falls asleep, try burping them for a few minutes before placing them back down to sleep. Otherwise, they make wake up in pain with trapped gas.

Do babies spit up more if they don’t burp?

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

How many burps should a baby do after breastfeeding?

Try burping your baby every 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 90 milliliters) if you bottle-feed and each time you switch breasts if you breastfeed. Try burping your baby every ounce during bottle-feeding or every 5 minutes during breastfeeding if your baby: tends to be gassy.

How do I make sure my baby is fully burped?

Sit your baby on your lap facing away from you. Place the palm of your hand flat against their chest and support their chin and jaw (do not put any pressure on the throat area). Lean your baby forwards slightly and with your free hand, gently rub or pat your baby’s back.

Is it okay if a newborn doesn’t burp after every feeding?

If your baby isn’t burping but doesn’t appear to be uncomfortable, they most likely don’t need to burp. However, if they aren’t burping and start fussing or crying, or if they frequently spit up, they most likely are taking in too much air while feeding. Spitting up is normal, particularly in the first 8 weeks.

At what age can I stop burping my baby?

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.

When burping a baby, is one burp enough?

Some babies don’t burp as often as others. You’ll get to know your baby’s personality, but a lot of babies do just at least let out one burp after a feeding. Some babies even will kind of spit up with a burp, and that’s okay. That’s just a little bit of that milk coming up with the air.

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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