Due to the incomplete development of the stomach and throat, newborns often exhibit an unstable state with their stomachs lying horizontally, and the lower esophageal sphincter (the entrance to the stomach) is relatively relaxed; therefore, spitting up is a common phenomenon, and mothers need not worry excessively. Most infants will experience spitting up several times almost every day during the first few months. The main issue for mothers is the frequent need to change clothes, so it is recommended to wear light-colored, easy-to-clean clothing while feeding.
There are various reasons behind spitting up: sometimes it is because the infant has overeaten and needs to expel the excess milk; other times it may be due to swallowing air without burping during feeding, leading to stomach contractions that trigger spitting up. As the infant grows, the lower esophageal sphincter will strengthen and the ability to burp will develop, resulting in less spitting up. However, if the infant appears lethargic, drowsy, or has a fever after spitting up, attention should be paid as it may indicate a health issue.
To alleviate spitting up, mothers should help the infant burp during feeding and ensure that the burping is effective. The correct technique involves a firm hand shape, with the palm slightly curved to create a slight indentation; while patting, the back should feel vibrations but the infant should not experience pain. Burping can be done in stages during the feeding process rather than waiting until after the baby has finished feeding. Especially when the infant is prone to gas and spitting up, burping should be done at the beginning of the feeding to prevent discomfort.
Maintaining a side-lying position for the infant helps reduce spitting up. Avoid holding the infant while sleeping for extended periods, and adjust the sleeping position every hour to prevent head shape deformities or organ compression. Swimming is also a recommended activity, as it can help reduce spitting up and enhance the infant’s physical fitness, provided that conditions allow and safety is ensured.
To prevent newborn spitting up, mothers should also pay attention to the following tips: change the diaper before feeding, avoid excessive movement of the infant after feeding; do not rush during feedings, and burp in between and at the end; control the feeding frequency, usually about every three hours is appropriate; choose the right size of nipple to prevent spitting due to difficulty sucking or feeding too quickly; use the correct feeding position, keeping the infant’s body tilted to aid digestion; pay attention to the rhythm of feeding to avoid the infant swallowing too aggressively. Following these methods can effectively reduce spitting up.
