Parents often encounter the situation of babies spitting up milk during the process of childcare, which is usually related to the incomplete development of the infant’s stomach function and is considered a normal phenomenon. However, finding blood streaks in the spit-up may understandably cause worry for mothers. In the face of such a situation, it is especially important to promptly understand the reasons and take appropriate measures.
Sometimes, when babies spit up milk accompanied by phlegm and traces of blood, it may be due to a mild respiratory infection. For example, one parent shared that her child was diagnosed by a doctor with a mild lung infection and received corresponding treatment advice, including avoiding the use of air conditioning to reduce irritation. In cases where spit-up contains blood streaks, especially for infants of a young age, seeking medical attention promptly upon the first occurrence is essential to ensure the baby’s health is not compromised. The blood streaks may originate from tiny wounds on the mother’s nipples during breastfeeding or from microcapillary ruptures in the baby’s esophagus due to intense vomiting. In most cases, these issues can self-heal relatively quickly, but if blood streaks persist, it requires evaluation by a healthcare professional.
In order to effectively calm a baby who spits up and reduce this phenomenon, the following methods can be tried:
Feed in small amounts at a time to avoid overfeeding in one go and reduce pressure on the baby’s stomach.
Gently pat the baby’s back during and after feeding to help release gas and reduce gas buildup.
After feeding, keep the baby upright for at least 20 to 30 minutes, which aids in digestion and reduces the likelihood of spit-up.
Avoid shaking or squeezing the baby immediately after feeding.
For babies who are fed with a bottle and frequently spit up, consider switching to a nipple with a lower flow rate.
As the baby grows gradually and learns to sit upright around 6 to 7 months old, the phenomenon of spitting up milk often naturally diminishes. During this process, parental understanding and appropriate handling can effectively alleviate the baby’s discomfort and ensure their healthy growth.
