When your baby seems restless at the breast, pulls their legs up, or cries after feeding, it is completely natural to think about gas. Many small babies swallow a little air during a meal or when they cry, and for some, this can cause noticeable discomfort. This does not mean you are doing anything wrong. During the early days, you are both learning how to breastfeed, and small adjustments can often make things calmer.
Can breastfeeding cause gas in your baby?
A baby can get gas in connection with breastfeeding, but it is not the breast milk itself that causes the gas. Air can get into the stomach if the baby loses their latch many times, lies restlessly at the breast, or cries a lot before or during the meal.
Some babies burp easily and do not seem affected, while others need a little break along the way. However, restlessness after a meal can also be due to tiredness, a need for closeness, too many impressions, or the baby still being hungry. Therefore, it is helpful to look at the whole situation rather than only looking for one explanation.
What signs may indicate gas?
Babies communicate with their bodies, and the signs can vary from child to child. Gas may manifest in several ways, including when your baby:
- releases the breast and seems uncomfortable during feeding
- twists, tenses their body, or pulls their legs up toward their stomach
- becomes upset shortly after a meal and settles more after a burp or a fart
- has clenched fists, a tense back, or appears bloated
- spits up a little when burping
A little spit-up after feeding or burping is very common. Keep a cloth handy, and try to stay calm. Babies feel your closeness and hear your voice, even when their tummy is acting up.
How can you help your baby burp?
There is no single right way to get a baby to burp. Some need to burp in the middle of feeding, others only afterward, and sometimes they do not burp at all. If your baby seems satisfied, you do not need to wait for a long time.
Instead, try holding your baby upright with good support for their head and neck. Keep their back relatively straight rather than completely curled up, and gently stroke or pat their back for a few minutes.
- Hold your baby upright against your shoulder with their head and neck supported.
- Let your baby sit on your lap, leaning slightly forward, with support for their chest, chin, and neck.
- Lay your baby face down across your thighs while supporting their head and gently stroking their back.
If there is no burp and your baby still seems uncomfortable, you can lay them on their back and slowly move their legs in a bicycle motion. A gentle tummy massage with a flat hand can also feel pleasant. Be gentle and stop if your baby does not like it.
Can the breastfeeding position reduce gas?
A calm and close breastfeeding position can make it easier for your baby to maintain a good latch. When your baby lies completely against you with their body, head, and shoulders in the same direction, they can swallow more easily and stay latched without having to work unnecessarily to hold on.
You can try these small adjustments:
- Wait until your baby opens their mouth wide before bringing them fully to the breast.
- Hold your baby close to your body so you do not have to lean your breast toward them.
- Take a break and offer the breast again if the latch frequently slips or if you hear a lot of clicking sounds.
- Take your time. A break for a burp or a little rest is perfectly fine.
It can be demanding 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 keep your baby close and calm at the breast.
Should you change your diet when your baby has gas?
It is understandable to wonder if something you have eaten is causing your baby to have gas. But generally, you do not need to remove many foods from your diet because your baby is restless or passing gas. 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 notice a clear and recurring pattern yourself, think carefully before making major changes to your diet. You need energy and nourishment for both yourself and breastfeeding.
When should you seek advice from a professional?
It is always okay to reach out and seek advice when you are concerned.
You know your baby best, and your intuition should be taken seriously.
Breastfeeding in the first few weeks can include both difficult moments and many questions. Small tummies can be restless without anything being wrong. Take it one feeding at a time, and remember that you do not have to solve everything alone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a breastfed baby always burp?
No. Some babies rarely need to burp, while others benefit from a little break during or after feeding. See whether your baby seems satisfied.
How long should I try to get my baby to burp?
A few calm minutes are often enough. If there is no burp, but your baby is relaxed and satisfied, you do not need to continue.
Can gas make your baby upset after feeding?
Yes, trapped gas can cause discomfort. But crying after feeding can also be due to many other things, such as tiredness, a need for reassurance, or hunger.
Is it normal for your baby to spit up after burping?
Yes, a little spit-up in connection with a burp is common. Keep an eye on whether your baby otherwise seems satisfied.