Why does it sound like my baby is swallowing air while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Sounds of Breastfeeding
For many new parents, the sounds that accompany breastfeeding can be surprising and sometimes concerning. One common sound is that of a baby seemingly swallowing air, which can lead to questions about whether this is normal or indicative of a problem.
The Nature of Air Swallowing
The phenomenon of a baby swallowing air during breastfeeding is medically referred to as aerophagia. This can occur for several reasons, primarily related to the baby’s latch and feeding technique. When a baby latches onto the breast, they create a seal that allows them to draw milk effectively. However, if the latch is not optimal, the baby may inadvertently suck in air along with milk. This can happen if the baby is not latched deeply enough or if they are feeding too quickly, leading to gulping sounds that mimic swallowing air.
Factors Contributing to Air Swallowing
Several factors can contribute to this air swallowing. For instance, a fast letdown reflex can cause the milk to flow rapidly, prompting the baby to gulp and potentially swallow air. Additionally, if the baby is fussy or crying before feeding, they may swallow more air as they latch on.
Parents often notice that their baby seems to have gas pains or a distended belly after feeding, which can be a direct result of swallowing air. This can lead to discomfort for the baby, making it essential for parents to monitor feeding techniques and adjust as necessary.
Addressing the Issue
To mitigate the swallowing of air, parents can try several strategies. Ensuring a proper latch is crucial; this means the baby should take in a good portion of the areola, not just the nipple. If the baby is gulping air, it may help to pause the feeding and allow the baby to burp before continuing. Additionally, positioning the baby in a more upright position during feeding can help reduce the amount of air swallowed.
If air swallowing persists and is accompanied by significant discomfort or feeding issues, consulting a lactation consultant can provide tailored advice and support. They can help identify any underlying issues with the baby’s latch or feeding habits that may be contributing to the problem.
Conclusion
In summary, while it may sound alarming when a baby appears to be swallowing air during breastfeeding, it is often a common occurrence linked to feeding techniques and the baby’s latch. By understanding the reasons behind these sounds and taking proactive steps, parents can help ensure a more comfortable feeding experience for their little ones.

How do I stop my baby from swallowing air while breastfeeding?

Sit your baby up as straight as possible while feeding. This will help minimise the amount of air they swallow.

How do I know if my baby is aspirating while breastfeeding?

Aspiration can cause signs and symptoms in a baby such as: Weak sucking. Choking or coughing while feeding. Other signs of feeding trouble, like a red face, watery eyes, or facial grimaces.

Why does my baby sound like gulping air when breastfeeding?

Yes, it’s completely normal for newborns to make gulping noises while breastfeeding. This is because they take quite a bit of air on board during their meal.

How to stop baby gulping while breastfeeding?

Do

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)

Do babies swallow more air with paced feeding?

Because paced feeding tamps the flow of milk or formula, babies tend to eat more slowly, taking in less air, making them less prone to gassiness compared to babies who recline to drink.

Why does my baby gasp for air while feeding?

Most babies who have laryngomalacia start having symptoms within a few days to weeks after birth. These symptoms may include: Noisy breathing. Difficulty feeding or gasping/choking noises while feeding.

Why is my baby swallowing so much air when feeding?

A baby may swallow excess air during bottle-feeding when drinking too fast or when lying down. A baby may also swallow excess air if the nipple has holes that are too big.

Why does my baby sound like gasping for air while breastfeeding?

Most often, babies are choking and gasping at the breast because mom has a lot of milk and/or the flow of her milk is so fast that the baby struggles (just like adults can only handle guzzling so much of a drink rather than drinking it at a more reasonable pace).

Why does it sound like my baby is gasping for air after feeding?

Laryngomalacia is a common cause of noisy breathing in infants. It happens when a baby’s larynx (or voice box) is soft and floppy. When the baby takes a breath, the part of the larynx above the vocal cords falls in and temporarily blocks the baby’s airway.

Should I be able to hear my baby swallow when breastfeeding?

Signs your baby is getting enough milk
Your baby starts feeds with a few rapid sucks followed by long, rhythmic sucks and swallows with occasional pauses. You can hear and see your baby swallowing. Your baby’s cheeks stay rounded, not hollow, during sucking. They seem calm and relaxed during feeds.