#asktheexpert My daughter spits up milk sometimes a lot sometimes little is it a concern ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Spitting up milk is very common in newborns and infants, especially in the first few months of life. For a 2-month-old baby, this is usually not a cause for concern, and most babies experience some degree of spit-up. This is often referred to as "posseting" and is a normal part of development.

Here are some possible reasons why this happens:

1. Immature Digestive System: Babies' digestive systems are still developing, and their stomach muscles may not be strong enough to keep all the milk down, leading to spit-up. The muscle at the top of the stomach (lower esophageal sphincter) may also be weak at this stage, causing the milk to come back up. 2. Overfeeding or Fast Feeding: If your baby is feeding too quickly or consuming too much milk at once, they might spit up. It can also happen if the baby is feeding while lying down or is moved too quickly after a feed. 3. Burping: Sometimes, trapped air can cause discomfort, and babies may spit up milk after feeding if they haven't been burped properly. Make sure to burp your baby during and after each feed. 4. Reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in infants and occurs when the milk comes back up from the stomach into the esophagus. While this is usually harmless in infants, if it leads to significant discomfort, frequent crying, or poor weight gain, it might need further evaluation by a pediatrician. When to Seek Medical Advice:

In most cases, spitting up is normal, but if you notice any of the following signs, it would be a good idea to consult your pediatrician:

Your baby seems to be in pain or discomfort after spitting up. There is a noticeable decrease in weight gain. The spit-up becomes forceful (projectile vomiting). There is blood or greenish color in the spit-up. The baby has difficulty feeding or appears to be choking.

Generally, as your baby grows and their digestive system matures, the spitting up tends to decrease. However, if you're concerned or the symptoms worsen, it's always best to check with your pediatrician for reassurance and guidance.