#asktheexpert my newborn baby is spitting out milk immediately after drinking..even after burping

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Accepted Answer

It's common for newborns to spit up milk occasionally, but if it happens frequently, there could be a few reasons for it. Here are some possible causes and tips to manage it:

Possible Causes:

1. Overfeeding: Sometimes babies may take in more milk than they can handle, leading to spitting up.

2. Immature Sphincter: The muscle that controls the flow of milk from the stomach to the esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter) is still developing in newborns, which can lead to milk coming back up after feeding.

3. Swallowing Air: If your baby swallows air while feeding, it can lead to spit-up after burping.

4. Positioning: Incorrect positioning during feeding can cause the milk to flow too quickly, which may lead to spitting up.

5. Reflux (GERD): Some babies have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which causes milk to flow back into the esophagus after feeding. If the spitting up is frequent, forceful, or accompanied by discomfort, it could be reflux.

6. Fast Flowing Milk: If you're breastfeeding and have a strong milk flow, your baby may have difficulty keeping up, causing them to swallow air or spit up.

Tips to Reduce Spitting Up:

1. Feed in an Upright Position: Hold your baby in a more upright position during and after feedings to help keep the milk down.

2. Burp Frequently: Continue burping your baby during feedings to help release any trapped air. You can try burping them halfway through a feed, as well as after the feed.

3. Avoid Overfeeding: Offer smaller amounts of milk at each feed and feed your baby more frequently, if needed, to avoid overfeeding.

4. Keep Baby Upright After Feeding: After a feed, hold your baby upright for 20-30 minutes to help milk settle in the stomach before lying them down.

5. Check Feeding Technique: Ensure that your baby is latching properly if breastfeeding, and if bottle-feeding, make sure the nipple flow is not too fast for your baby.

6. Gentle Patting: Burp your baby gently instead of patting hard, as rough burping may cause more spitting up.

7. Give Some Time: Avoid immediately laying your baby down after a feed. Wait at least 20-30 minutes to reduce the chances of spitting up.

8. Monitor for Reflux: If your baby seems to be in pain, is arching their back, or has trouble gaining weight, GERD could be a possibility. Consult with a pediatrician for advice.

When to Consult a Pediatrician:

If spitting up is excessive or forceful.

If your baby seems to be in pain or discomfort after feeding.

If there's a lack of weight gain or growth.

If your baby has signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, etc.).

Spitting up is often a normal part of newborn development, but if you're concerned or it continues frequently, it's best to talk to your pediatrician for further evaluation.