What if my breastfed baby wont burp?

Understanding Burping in Breastfed Babies
When it comes to caring for a newborn, one of the common concerns for parents is whether their breastfed baby is burping adequately after feeding. Burping is often seen as a necessary step to relieve any air that the baby may have swallowed during feeding, which can lead to discomfort if not addressed. However, the reality is a bit more nuanced.
Why Burping Matters
Burping helps to release air that babies may ingest while feeding. This air can cause discomfort, leading to fussiness or spitting up. For breastfed infants, the need to burp can vary significantly. Some babies may not need to burp as frequently as others, especially if they are feeding effectively and not taking in excessive air.
What If Your Baby Won’t Burp?
If your breastfed baby doesn’t burp after feeding, it’s important to remember that this may not be a cause for concern. Many babies, particularly those who are breastfed, may not need to burp at all. The digestion of breast milk is generally more efficient than that of formula, which can reduce the likelihood of gas buildup.
If your baby seems content and is not showing signs of discomfort, such as fussiness or excessive spitting up, then the lack of a burp may not be an issue. In fact, some experts suggest that if a baby is calm and happy, there’s likely no need to force a burp.
Signs to Watch For
However, if your baby is fussy during or after feeding, or if they frequently spit up, it could indicate that they are swallowing too much air. In such cases, it might be beneficial to try burping them more frequently during feeds. For instance, you can attempt to burp your baby every 2 to 3 ounces of milk if bottle-feeding, or each time you switch breasts while breastfeeding.
Techniques for Burping
If you decide to try burping your baby, there are several effective techniques you can use. Common positions include holding your baby upright against your shoulder, sitting them on your lap while supporting their chin, or laying them across your lap. Gentle pats or rubs on the back can help release trapped air.
Conclusion
In summary, if your breastfed baby doesn’t burp, it may not be a problem at all. Each baby is unique, and their needs can vary widely. As long as your baby appears comfortable and is feeding well, the absence of a burp is likely nothing to worry about. However, if you notice signs of discomfort or excessive fussiness, adjusting feeding techniques or trying to burp more frequently may help alleviate any potential issues. Always trust your instincts as a parent and consult with a pediatrician if you have ongoing concerns about your baby’s feeding and comfort.

When do you not have to worry about 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.

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.

Will my baby be ok if he doesn’t burp?

Sometimes your baby may awaken because of gas. Picking your little one up to burp might put them back to sleep. As your baby gets older, don’t worry if your child doesn’t burp during or after every feeding. Usually, it means that your baby has learned to eat without swallowing too much air.

What if my baby is impossible to burp at night?

Allow their body to stay in a curled up position, which may make them less likely to wake up. Use the hand that is on their back to rub it, making circular motions first. If rubbing does not produce a burp, try gentle pats between their shoulders.

Can I put my breastfed baby down without burping?

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.

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.

What happens if baby doesn’t burp and falls asleep?

If you’re concerned about what happens if your baby won’t burp after feeding, try not to worry. He’ll likely be just fine and will end up passing the gas from the other end. Other babies may spit up in the crib later on, or they’ll wake up fussy and need that burp you tried to get out of them before.

How to stop baby gulping air when breastfeeding?

Make sure your baby has a good latch so he doesn’t swallow too much air. Burp him throughout the feedings to help get rid of the gas. Try not to let your baby overfeed or feed too quickly. Keep track of when your baby is gassy and look back at your diet.

What to do if a breastfed baby doesn’t burp?

Hold your baby, abdomen down, against your chest, or over your shoulder, and pat or rub their back. Prop your baby into a seated position on your lap. Support your baby’s back with one other hand and just wait (babies will sometimes burp on their own) or go ahead and rub or pat their back.

Will my baby be OK if he doesn’t burp?

Sometimes your baby may awaken because of gas. Picking your little one up to burp might put them back to sleep. As your baby gets older, don’t worry if your child doesn’t burp during or after every feeding. Usually, it means that your baby has learned to eat without swallowing too much air.