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how to burp a baby

Question

#asktheexpert 
how to burp a baby

Accepted Answer

Burping a one-month-old baby is an important part of feeding to help release any swallowed air during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to burp your one-month-old:

1. **During Feeding:**
   - **Breastfeeding:** If you are breastfeeding, try to burp your baby when you switch breasts.
   - **Bottle-feeding:** If you are bottle-feeding, burp your baby halfway through the feeding and at the end.

2. **Hold Upright:**
   - Hold your baby in an upright position against your chest. Support their head and neck with one hand and their bottom with the other.

3. **Pat or Rub Back:**
   - Gently pat or rub your baby's back with a cupped hand. Use a soft and steady motion, avoiding excessive force. You can also try gentle circular motions.

4. **Over-the-Shoulder Position:**
   - Place your baby over your shoulder with their chin resting on your shoulder. Support their head and neck with one hand while gently patting or rubbing their back with the other.

5. **Sitting Position:**
   - Sit your baby on your lap, supporting their chest and chin with one hand while using the other hand to pat or rub their back.

6. **Face-Down on Lap:**
   - Lay your baby face-down on your lap, with their head turned to the side. Support their chest and chin with your hand and pat or rub their back gently.

7. **Experiment with Positions:**
   - Every baby is different, so try different burping positions to find what works best for your baby. Some babies may prefer one position over another.

8. **Watch for Burp Signs:**
   - Keep an eye out for signs of a burp, such as a sound or feeling of air escaping. Not all babies burp audibly, so pay attention to cues that your baby has released swallowed air.

9. **Be Patient:**
   - Some babies may burp quickly, while others may take a bit longer. Be patient and continue trying different positions until your baby burps.

Remember that every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's also essential to burp your baby during and after each feeding to minimize discomfort caused by trapped air.

If you have concerns about burping or your baby seems fussy after feedings, consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice based on your baby's health and development.

#asktheexpert how to burp a baby