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Why does the babys stomach make noise when breastfeeding?

Understanding the Noises: Why Babies’ Stomachs Make Sounds During Breastfeeding
For many new parents, the experience of breastfeeding is filled with unexpected sounds and sensations. One of the more curious phenomena is the audible rumbling or gurgling noises that can emanate from a baby’s stomach while nursing. These sounds can be surprising, especially for first-time parents who may not have anticipated such auditory feedback during feeding sessions.
The Science Behind the Sounds
The noises that come from a baby’s stomach during breastfeeding are primarily due to the digestive process. When a baby suckles, they not only consume milk but also swallow air. This can lead to the formation of gas in the stomach and intestines, which can create various sounds as it moves through the digestive tract. The gurgling or rumbling noises are often a normal part of digestion, indicating that the baby’s gastrointestinal system is working as it should.
Moreover, the act of breastfeeding itself can stimulate the baby’s digestive system. The rhythmic sucking and swallowing can cause the stomach to contract, leading to the release of gas and the accompanying sounds. This is particularly common in younger infants whose digestive systems are still maturing.
Dietary Influences
While the sounds are typically normal, they can sometimes be exacerbated by the mother’s diet. Certain foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers can lead to increased gas production in their babies. Foods such as dairy, beans, and cruciferous vegetables are known to potentially cause discomfort and gas in some infants. If a mother notices that her baby is particularly gassy or fussy, it may be worth evaluating her diet and consulting with a healthcare professional for guidance.
When to Be Concerned
Although the sounds are usually harmless, there are instances when they may indicate a problem. If a baby appears to be in distress, is excessively fussy, or shows signs of discomfort while feeding, it may be wise to seek advice from a lactation consultant or pediatrician. They can help determine if there are underlying issues, such as an improper latch or potential food sensitivities.
In conclusion, the noises that accompany breastfeeding are a natural part of the process, reflecting the baby’s digestive activity. While they can be surprising, they are generally nothing to worry about. However, being attentive to the baby’s cues and the mother’s diet can help ensure a comfortable feeding experience for both mother and child.

How to tell if baby is comfort nursing?

Your baby is only nursing for comfort nursing when you see these signs:

  1. Flutter sucking, slowing down, stop sucking, or making little sucks.
  2. Still and looking into space while nursing.
  3. Holding the nipple in their mouth but not sucking for milk.
  4. Rooting and sucking lightly at the breast.
  5. Arching and grabbing ears.

Why does my baby grumble while breastfeeding?

Sometimes babies make grunting noises or have raspy or squeaky breathing. These sounds may be fine but you should discuss with your healthcare provider or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The most important thing to remember is that breastfeeding should not be painful.

When should I be worried about stomach noises?

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.

Why does my baby’s stomach make noises while breastfeeding?

Tummy massage can help too – but if you are breastfeeding and your baby seems gassy and sore, latching on can also help to relax their muscles and pas gas. The noises themselves though are usually just a sign of normal healthy digestion. Not a sign of reflux. Not a sign of a problem.

Why is my breastfed baby so gassy?

Gas is a normal part of the gastrointestinal (GI) system, and we all have gases in us from time to time. 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.

Why is my newborn’s tummy gurgling?

If a newborn’s stomach is gurgling, it can mean many things. There isn’t necessarily something wrong. “It may just mean the infant is hungry or preparing to pass stool,” says Quillin.

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

If your little one is not latching deep enough, they may be swallowing more air. A painful latch or a ‘clicking’ sound made while baby is feeding may indicate their latch needs adjusting. Shallow latches are often remedied with a new breastfeeding position along with some minor latch corrections.

How do you get rid of gas in a newborn’s stomach?

How to help infants with gas

  1. Start feedings before your infant cries a long time from hunger. When infants cry from hunger, they swallow air.
  2. Burp after your infant is done feeding.
  3. Pay attention to positioning.
  4. Increase tummy time.

Can breastmilk upset a baby’s stomach?

If your baby shows negative symptoms after drinking breast milk. Consider how your baby responds to breast milk after drinking it. 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.

Why does my baby make noise when breastfeeding?

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. Your nipple looks rounded, not flattened, when your baby comes off your breast.

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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