What is the best position to breastfeed a baby with reflux?

Understanding Reflux in Babies
Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience for mothers and their infants, but for those whose babies suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), it can also present unique challenges. GERD in infants is characterized by the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus, which can lead to discomfort, irritability, and feeding difficulties. As a result, finding the best breastfeeding position becomes crucial for both comfort and effectiveness.
Optimal Breastfeeding Positions for Babies with Reflux
1. Upright Feeding Position
One of the most recommended positions for breastfeeding a baby with reflux is the upright feeding position. This involves holding the baby in a more vertical orientation during feeding. There are a couple of ways to achieve this:
– The Rugby Hold: In this position, the baby is cradled along the side of the mother’s body, with their head near the breast. This allows for a more upright angle, which can help prevent reflux by keeping the milk down in the stomach.
– The Cross-Cradle Hold: Similar to the standard cradle hold, but the mother supports the baby’s head with the opposite arm, allowing the baby to feed in a semi-upright position. This also provides good control and prevents the baby from lying flat.
2. Side-Lying Position
The side-lying position is another effective option. In this position, the mother lies on her side with the baby lying parallel to her. This allows the baby to latch on comfortably while keeping them in a horizontal position that may reduce the risk of reflux. Additionally, this position is particularly useful for nighttime feedings, as it can help both mother and baby remain relaxed and comfortable.
3. Elevated Feeding Position
For some mothers, using a breastfeeding pillow or cushion to elevate the baby’s head during feeding can provide added support. By keeping the baby’s upper body elevated, this position can help minimize reflux. Adjusting the angle of the baby’s body while feeding can also promote better digestion and reduce discomfort.
Additional Tips for Breastfeeding with Reflux
– Frequent, Smaller Feedings: Feeding smaller amounts more frequently can help manage reflux symptoms. This approach reduces the volume of milk in the stomach at any one time, which may lessen the likelihood of reflux episodes.
– Burping Techniques: Incorporating frequent burping during and after feedings can help release trapped air and reduce discomfort. Try burping the baby after every few minutes of feeding or whenever they seem fussy.
– Post-Feeding Positioning: After breastfeeding, keeping the baby upright for at least 20 to 30 minutes can further help minimize reflux. Holding the baby against the shoulder or in an upright seat can be effective.
Conclusion
While every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another, the key to managing breastfeeding with reflux lies in finding the right position. The upright feeding position, side-lying position, and elevated feeding techniques offer various solutions for mothers. Consulting with a pediatrician or a lactation consultant can provide tailored advice and support, ensuring both mother and baby have a pleasant breastfeeding experience despite the challenges posed by reflux.

How should a baby with reflux be positioned?

Positioning Your Baby
Keep your infant upright and calm for 20-30 minutes after each feed; preferably by holding them. Avoid placing your baby in a car seat or swing during this time as it may increase pressure on their belly and cause more symptoms of reflux.

How can I help my baby with reflux while breastfeeding?

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)

What is the best position to nurse to prevent spit up?

If this happens during feeding: Try nursing your baby in a more upright position (head above the breast). This may ease the force of the milk. Nurse in a side-lying position, which also might help slow the flow of milk.

How do I know if my breastmilk is upsetting my baby’s stomach?

If symptoms occur such as fussiness, irritability, crying, gas, increased spitting up and/or drawing their legs up due to tummy pain, write down everything you ate that day. This lets you carefully look at your diet instead of getting rid of foods that may not be the cause of your baby’s distress.

Is side-lying breastfeeding ok for reflux?

As the opening from the stomach to the oesophagus is usually on the right side, keeping the right side higher than the left may also help. Short, frequent feeds ease the incidence and discomfort of reflux. If a mother has a copious milk supply then feeding one side only at each feed may ease discomfort.

What position is best for reflux?

Switch to the Best Sleeping Position for Acid Reflux
Multiple research studies have found that sleeping on your left side. View Source is the best sleeping position for GERD. Sleeping with your left side down reduces reflux episodes. View Source and exposure of the esophagus to stomach acid.

Does side-lying breastfeeding cause reflux?

The positions shown to significantly reduce reflux include lying on the left side and prone (baby on his tummy). Placing the infant in a prone position should only be done when the child is awake and can be continuously monitored.

How do I stop my baby from gulping while breastfeeding?

It may help to position the baby so that the back of the baby’s throat is higher than your nipple. This way the milk will not collect in the back of the baby’s mouth. This position also gives the baby more control of the flow of milk.

What not to do with a baby with reflux?

Do not over-feed your baby. Feeding your baby too much can make reflux symptoms worse. Their doctor or health care provider will tell you how much they should be eating with each feed. If vomiting or reflux symptoms occur, give less at each feeding.

What position should I breastfeed my baby with reflux?

You may need to try out different positions:

• Sit your baby facing your breast, their legs on either side of your leg. Or cuddle them against the side of a sofa, facing your breast.
• Instead of cradling your baby around your body, you can cradle baby down your body.
• Lie back so that your baby lies on top of your body.