No parent wants to see their child struggling, and vomiting is no exception. Sometimes it’s just spitting-up after a feed, sometimes it’s more, because of a tummy bug or acid reflux. Here are a few simple ways to tame these tummy troubles.
1) Feed baby in a more upright position, and keep them upright after feeding
Keeping baby upright helps gravity do its job. Try keeping baby upright for 30 minutes after feeding.
2) Burp more often
Try burping halfway through the feed and again at the end.
3) Avoid rough bouncing or tummy pressure after feeds
Right after feeding, skip the rough bouncing and play, tight waistbands and car rides.
4) Try smaller, more frequent feeds
Remember, your baby’s tummy is tiny and can’t manage a lot of liquid at once. A very full tummy can lead to more upset, so smaller feeds might be easier to manage. Breastfed babies typically feed more frequently, often about every couple of hours. That can mean around 8 to 12 feeds in a full day. Formula-fed babies may need fewer feeds, usually around 6 to 10 times a day.
5) Make sure your baby isn’t sucking in air
For breastfed babies, this means checking that the latch is good. If you’re unsure, a nurse or lactation consultant can help. If your baby is formula-fed, it also helps to prepare feeds carefully and avoid too many bubbles, and check that the teat flow isn’t too fast.
When to seek medical help urgently
Please seek medical help urgently if your baby:
- vomits forcefully again and again
- vomits green or yellow fluid
- has blood in their vomit
- has signs of dehydration (very few wet nappies, dry mouth, sunken soft spot, very sleepy)
- has a fever (especially in young babies)
- seems unusually floppy, weak, or difficult to wake
- is not keeping feeds down at all
References
https://www.healthline.com/health/baby/baby-vomiting-no-fever
