When you are a new parent, one of the most common concerns is how to help your baby relieve gas. Babies, especially newborns, are prone to having trouble expelling air trapped in their small stomachs, which can lead to bouts of discomfort and crying. Learning to manage this situation effectively is essential for your baby's well-being and your own peace of mind.
Why do babies have gas?
Before addressing techniques to help your baby pass gas, it is important to understand why babies are prone to this problem. Babies swallow air frequently while eating, crying, or simply breathing. Additionally, their immature digestive system can make it harder for them to process and eliminate that air. Below are some of the most common causes of gas in babies:
- Swallowing air while feeding: Babies often swallow air when breastfeeding or bottle-feeding. This may be due to poor feeding technique, such as poor latching or milk flow that is too rapid.
- Immaturity of the digestive system: Newborns' digestive systems are not fully developed, making it difficult to efficiently eliminate swallowed air.
- Consumption of breast milk or formula: Some babies may have gas due to breast milk or formula that does not agree with them. Some ingredients in the formula or certain foods the mother eats can contribute to this problem.
- Breastfeeding problems: If the mother is breastfeeding, certain problems, such as excess milk or sucking disorder, can lead to air swallowing.
- Food intolerances or allergies: Some babies may be sensitive or allergic to certain foods, which can cause gas buildup.
- Swallowing: Babies tend to swallow large amounts of saliva, which can contribute to air buildup in the stomach.
- Position changes: The position a baby is in during or after feeding can also influence gas buildup.
Now that we understand why babies get gas, let's look at how we can help them feel better.
Signs that your baby has gas
Before addressing the topic of how to relieve your baby's gas, it is important to be able to identify if your baby has gas. Some of the common signs that a baby is gassy include:
Irritability : Gassy babies often become fussy and cry frequently, especially after feedings.
Abdominal swelling: Your baby's abdomen may feel swollen and hard to the touch.
Leg movements: Babies may bend their legs toward their stomach or do bicycle movements to try to relieve discomfort.
Burping : Some babies may burp frequently or have difficulty burping, indicating the presence of gas.
Difficulty sleeping: Gas can cause a baby to have difficulty sleeping or wake up frequently.
If you see these signs in your baby, it is likely that he or she is gassy and you may want to consider using the techniques described below to relieve his or her discomfort.
Techniques to Get Out Baby's Gas
Fortunately, there are many techniques you can use to help your baby pass gas. It's important to remember that every baby is unique, so you may need to try several of these techniques to find the one that works best for your child. Below are some of the most effective strategies to get rid of baby's gas:
1. Burping after meals
Burping your baby after each meal is one of the most effective ways to prevent gas buildup. To burp your baby, follow these steps:
- Hold the baby upright on your shoulder or in a sitting position on your lap.
- Pat them gently on the back until they burp.
- Make sure baby is comfortable and safe while you perform this task.
2. Change position during feeding
The position in which you feed your baby can influence the amount of air they swallow. If you are breastfeeding, make sure baby has a good latch to minimize air swallowing. If you are using a bottle, make sure the milk flow is adequate and that the baby is not taking in air along with the milk.
3. Leg movements
Making gentle movements of your baby's legs, as if pedaling a bicycle, can help release gas trapped in the stomach. Lay the baby on his back and gently move his legs toward his stomach in a circular motion.
4. Abdominal massage
A gentle abdominal massage can help relieve bloating and discomfort caused by gas. Use your index and middle fingers to make clockwise circular movements around the baby's belly button.
5. Use gravity
Placing the baby in a position where gravity can help gas move up and out of the digestive system can be effective. Keep the baby upright on your lap for a few minutes after feeding.
6. Non-nutritive pacifier or suction
Nonnutritive sucking, such as using a pacifier, can help some babies relieve gas. This may be because the sucking motion helps release air trapped in the stomach.
7. Warmth and comfort
Heat can be comforting to babies and can help relax stomach muscles. You can try applying a warm compress to the baby's abdomen or taking a warm bath to relieve discomfort.
8. Herbal tea for babies
Some herbal teas designed specifically for babies may be helpful in relieving gas. Consult a pediatrician before giving any type of tea to your baby, and make sure it is safe and appropriate for his or her age.
9. Change the mother's formula or diet
If you suspect that breast milk or formula is causing gas problems in your baby, consult a health professional. It may be necessary to change the formula or adjust the mother's diet if she is breastfeeding.
10. Consult with a health professional
If your baby's gas problems persist or are severe, it is important to seek advice from a pediatrician or lactation specialist. They can perform a more complete evaluation to rule out possible underlying health problems and offer specific guidance.
What to avoid when treating gas in babies?
Although it is important to know what techniques can be effective in relieving gas in babies, it is also essential to know the practices that you should avoid. Some of the things to avoid when treating gas in babies include:
- Do not shake the baby: Shaking the baby, even slightly, can be dangerous and cause serious injuries, such as shaken baby syndrome.
- Do not use home remedies without consulting a professional: Do not apply home remedies or supplements to your baby without first consulting a doctor or pediatrician. Some products may be dangerous or ineffective.
- Don't restrict feeding: Make sure your baby gets enough food and nutrition. Do not restrict diet without the advice of a health professional.
- Don't introduce solids too early: Don't introduce solid foods into your baby's diet earlier than recommended by your pediatrician. Premature introduction of solid foods may increase the risk of gastrointestinal problems.
When should you see a doctor
Most cases of gas in babies can be managed at home with the techniques mentioned above. However, there are situations in which it is important to seek medical attention for your baby. Some of the warning signs that you should see a doctor include:
- Persistent and uncontrollable crying.
- Signs of extreme discomfort, such as fever or vomiting.
- Changes in eating pattern or inadequate weight gain.
- Severe abdominal distension or obvious pain.
- Blood in the stool or persistent problems with diarrhea or constipation.
- If you notice any of these signs, contact your baby's pediatrician immediately.