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Baby Spitting Up?

Posted by Baby Magic in Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX on Aug 08, 2011

A baby spitting up is usually normal and stops on its own. Learn more from baby powder maker, Baby Magic. Have you had an embarrassing spit-up incident? Tell us on Facebook!

If you are a new mom, a baby spitting up his food can be scary. If your baby is spitting up frequently, how can you be sure he is receiving adequate nutrition?

What is spitting up?

Spitting up is simply regurgitating food almost immediately after eating. This can happen to babies who are breastfed or bottle-fed.

Is it normal?
Almost all babies can experience some form of spit up. A healthy infant who is on the right developmental phases has occasional spit up or even a short phase of excessive spitting up. Burp cloths are popular because spitting up is a common occurrence and no need for alarm.

As long as your infant is staying hydrated and continues to grow and gain weight regularly, then your doctor may take a wait-and-see approach to allow baby to grow out of this phase.

Read about other phases of baby-dom from USA-based baby powder maker, Baby Magic.

When is it not normal?
Babies usually stop spitting up in 4-6 months. About 40 percent of babies spit up on a regular basis. If the baby spits up more often, the problem could be reflux. Reflux is most commonly seen in babies who are bottle-fed. Research shows that breastfed babies throw up less and, if they do, the vomit is less severe.

If your infant acts lethargic and listless, these are signs of dehydration and he needs immediate medical attention. Go to the nearest emergency room and call your pediatrician.

What should I do if my baby spits up?

Handle his body gently and burp him.
Keep him sitting upright while feeding him.
Feed him on a regular schedule before he begins crying, as he is more likely to ingest air as he cries, exacerbating the problem.
Give him smaller, more frequent feedings that are easier for him to digest. Remember that a baby's stomach is only about the size of a golf ball.
Keep some clean clothes and a towel close at hand.
Try cutting back on supplements and vitamins. Most babies who are breastfed don't need the extra vitamins and minerals.
Don't put pressure on his tummy. Make sure that the diaper or clothing isn't too tight.
Keep him from bouncing and swinging for at least half an hour after feeding.

For more tips on baby care, follow baby powder manufacturer, Baby Magic on Facebook.