Find our explanations and all our advice to better understand regurgitation and reflux in babies and how to manage them on a daily basis.
Regurgitation in babies
Regurgitation is very common in babies under 3 months old, and in 95% of cases, it stops before the age of one.<sup> 1 </sup> While this phenomenon may seem alarming, rest assured, it's a normal process that affects half of all babies.<sup> 2 </sup> Because we know that reflux and regurgitation can be a source of anxiety for new parents, we're going to share our knowledge to help you approach this situation more calmly.
Why does a baby spit up?
At birth, the infant's digestive tract and the valve ring (called the cardia) that prevents food from flowing back up from the stomach to the mouth are still immature. This is why, right after feeding or a little later, the baby may regurgitate a mixture of milk and saliva. These regurgitations, which are painless and do not harm the baby's growth, are also called simple gastroesophageal reflux.
Some babies spit up more than others, but this usually decreases around 6 months, with the start of weaning , and stops completely around 1 year. In any case, if your baby is doing well and continues to gain weight, don't worry; spitting up is mostly harmless.
What to do if your baby regurgitates 5.6 ?
- During breastfeeding, remember to take regular breaks to allow your baby to burp and release the air that distends their stomach and promotes gastroesophageal reflux;
- Divide the amount of milk given at each meal so as not to overload his stomach;
- If your baby is not breastfed*, check that you have followed the preparation instructions on the infant formula box;
- After breastfeeding, keep your baby upright against you and after a few minutes, if you lay him/her down, remember to slightly elevate his/her head;
- Avoid putting pressure on her tummy with a diaper that is too tight, for example;
- If your child is old enough to start weaning, you can try giving them solid foods, starting of course with smooth purees, and gradually introducing pieces;
- Avoid passive smoking, which can worsen reflux.
Note: burping helps reduce regurgitation but it is not systematic, especially in the case of breastfeeding*.
When should you consult a doctor?
In case of significant and frequent regurgitation, and if you are not breastfeeding*, your pediatrician will surely recommend that you change infant formula 6 .
Infant regurgitation is usually benign. However, if you notice that it seems painful and is accompanied by crying , is very abundant, or if your baby is not gaining weight orrefuses to feed , it is important to consult a pediatrician to find the cause of the regurgitation, such as gastroesophageal reflux, and thus implement appropriate medical treatment .
Share your stories!
Is your baby prone to reflux? Do you have any tips to share with other parents to help them through this phase? The #NewGenerationBio community is eager to hear your unfiltered stories ! Share your experiences or questions on our Instagram @biostime.fr because your responses are always invaluable.
*Important notice: breast milk is the ideal and natural food for infants.
Sources:
- Bellaïche M, Bargaoui K, et al. Arch Pediatr. 2017;24(1):17-23
- Campeotto F., Hospital V., Maigret P. Poster presented at European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition meeting. Glasgow, Scotland; June 5-8, 2019; / Martigne L, Delaage PH, Thomas-Delecourt F, Bonnelye G, Barthelemy P, Gottrand F. 2012. Eur J Pediatr. 171(12):1767–73
- Naitre et Grandir [Online] Burps and Regurgitation [Accessed 04/09/2023] Available: https://naitreetgrandir.com/fr/etape/0_12_mois/soins/fiche.aspx?doc=naitre-grandir-bebe-rot-reflux-regurgitation-gaz
- DORÉ, Nicole and Danielle LE HÉNAFF. Better Living with Our Child from Pregnancy to Two Years: A Practical Guide for Mothers and Fathers. National Institute of Public Health of Quebec, Quebec
- Ameli [Online] Infant regurgitation: what to do? [Accessed 04/09/2023] Available: https://www.ameli.fr/rhone/assure/sante/themes/rgo-nourrisson/que-faire-quand-consulter6.Mpedia [Online] Infant regurgitation: is it GERD? [Accessed 04/09/2023] Available: https://www.mpedia.fr/art-diagnostic-rgo/
