Burping a baby is an essential task that new parents must learn to do correctly. Babies tend to swallow air along with their milk or formula when feeding. This air can cause discomfort, bloating, and even spit-up. Burping helps release that trapped air and can help soothe a fussy baby.
This article will discuss how often you should burp your baby, tips for effective burping, and the best positions for burping.
How often should you burp your baby?
The frequency of burping depends on the baby’s age and feeding method. Generally, breastfed babies may not need to be burped as often as bottle-fed babies. Breastfed babies tend to swallow less air while feeding since they control the milk flow from the breast. It is recommended to burp your baby after switching sides or during a break in feeding.
For bottle-fed babies, burying them after every 2-3 ounces of milk or after every feeding is recommended. Some babies may need to be burped more frequently if they are prone to spitting up or have reflux.
Tips for effective burping
- Patting: Gently pat your baby’s back with your palm or fingertips. Start with light patting and gradually increase the pressure until your baby burps. Make sure to support your baby’s head and neck while patting.
- Rubbing: Rubbing your baby’s back in a circular motion can also help release the trapped air. Use gentle pressure and move your hand in a clockwise direction.
- Sitting position: Sit your baby upright on your lap, supporting their chest and head with your hand. Lean your baby slightly forward and pat or rub their back. This position can help release the trapped air in their stomach.
- Over-the-shoulder position: Place your baby over your shoulder, supporting their head and neck with your hand. Pat or rub their back gently. This position can help release air from their upper chest.
- Face-down on your lap: Place your baby face-down on your lap, with their head slightly elevated. Gently pat or rub their back. This position can help release air from their lower chest.
- Walking: While holding your baby upright, walking can also help release the trapped air.
It is essential to burp your baby after feeding to prevent discomfort and fussiness. However, not all babies will burp after every feeding, so don’t worry if your baby doesn’t burp. If your baby is not fussy and seems comfortable after feeding, it may not need to be burped.
In conclusion, burping is an essential task that parents must learn to do correctly. The frequency of burping depends on the baby’s age and feeding method. Breastfed babies may not need to be burped as often as bottle-fed babies. There are various tips and positions for effective burping, including patting, rubbing, sitting, over-the-shoulder, face-down on your lap, and walking.
Consult your paediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s feeding or burping. With practice and patience, burping will become a natural part of your baby’s feeding routine.
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