When your baby seems restless at the breast, pulls up their legs, or cries after breastfeeding, it's natural to think of gas. Many small babies swallow a little air during feeding or when they cry, and for some, this can cause significant discomfort. This doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong. In the beginning, both of you are getting to know breastfeeding, and small adjustments can often create more calm.
Can breastfeeding cause gas in babies?
A baby can indeed get gas during breastfeeding, but it's not the breast milk itself that causes the gas. Air can enter the stomach if the baby loses suction on the breast many times, is restless at the breast, or cries a lot before or during feeding.
Some babies burp easily and don't seem affected, while others need a short break along the way. However, fussiness after a meal can also be due to tiredness, a need for closeness, too many impressions, or the baby still being hungry. Therefore, it's helpful to look at the whole situation rather than just searching for one explanation.
What signs might indicate gas?
Babies communicate with their bodies, and the signs can vary from child to child. Gas in the stomach can manifest, among other things, by your baby:
- letting go of the breast and seeming uncomfortable during breastfeeding
- writhing, tensing their body, or pulling their legs up towards their stomach
- becoming upset shortly after a meal and calming down after a burp or passing gas
- having clenched fists, arching their back, or appearing bloated
- spitting up a little in connection with a burp
A little spit-up after breastfeeding or a burp is very common. You might want to have a burp cloth ready, and try to stay calm. Babies sense your closeness and your voice, even when their tummy is bothering them.
How can you help your baby burp?
There isn't one right way to get a baby to burp. Some need it in the middle of feeding, others only afterward, and sometimes the burp doesn't come at all. If your baby seems content, you don't need to spend a long time waiting.
Instead, try holding your baby upright with good support for the head and neck. Keep their back relatively straight rather than completely curled up, and gently stroke or pat their back for a couple of minutes.
- Hold the baby upright against your shoulder with head and neck supported.
- Let the baby sit on your lap, leaning slightly forward and with support at the chest, jaw, and neck.
- Lay the baby face down over your thighs, while supporting their head and gently stroking their back.
If a burp doesn't come, and your baby still seems uncomfortable, you can lay the baby on their back and slowly move their legs as if pedaling a bicycle. A gentle massage of the tummy with a flat hand can also feel good. Be gentle and stop if your baby doesn't like it.
Can breastfeeding positions reduce gas?
A calm and close breastfeeding position can make it easier for your baby to maintain a good latch on the breast. When the baby is held close to you with their body, head, and shoulders aligned in the same direction, they can swallow more easily and stay at the breast without having to work unnecessarily to hold on.
You can try these small adjustments:
- Preferably wait for your baby to open their mouth wide before bringing them all the way to the breast.
- Hold the baby close to your body, so you don't have to lean your breast forward towards the baby.
- Take a break and offer the breast again if the suction often slips or if you hear many clicking sounds.
- Take your time. A break for a burp or a short rest is perfectly fine.
It can be challenging to sit comfortably, especially when feedings are frequent. Feel free to support your arms with pillows so your shoulders can relax. The more comfortable you are, the easier it can be to hold your baby close and calmly at the breast.
Should you change your diet if your baby has gas?
It's understandable to wonder if something you've eaten is giving your baby gas. But as a general rule, you don't need to eliminate many foods from your diet because your baby is restless or gassy. Gas in small babies is often due to their immature digestion and the air they swallow, not specific common foods in your diet.
If you see a clear and repeated pattern combined with other symptoms in your baby, talk to your health visitor or doctor before making significant changes to your diet. You need energy and nutrition for both yourself and breastfeeding.
When should you seek advice from a professional?
It's always okay to reach out when you're concerned. Contact your health visitor or doctor if your baby seems very affected, has difficulty eating, is not gaining weight as expected, has fewer wet diapers than usual, or if breastfeeding is painful and feels difficult.
Seek immediate medical help if your baby has a fever, is vomiting green, has blood in their stool or vomit, seems lethargic, or is difficult to rouse. You know your baby best, and your gut feeling should be taken seriously.
The first few weeks of breastfeeding can involve both tender moments and many questions. Small tummies can be restless without anything being wrong. Take one feeding at a time, and remember that you don't have to solve everything alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a breastfed baby always have to burp?
No. Some babies rarely need to burp, while others benefit from a short break during or after breastfeeding. See if your baby seems content.
How long should I try to get the baby to burp?
A couple of calm minutes are often enough. If a burp doesn't come, but the baby is relaxed and content, you don't need to continue.
Can gas make a baby upset after breastfeeding?
Yes, trapped gas can cause discomfort. But crying after breastfeeding can also be due to many other things like tiredness, a need for security, or hunger.
Is it normal for a baby to spit up after a burp?
Yes, a little spit-up in connection with a burp is common. Contact a professional if the vomiting is forceful, frequent, or your baby seems affected.