The Importance of Burping Your Newborn

Newborns often swallow small amounts of air while feeding. This is especially common when babies feed quickly, cry before a feeding, use a fast-flow bottle nipple, or have difficulty maintaining a good latch.

That trapped air can make a baby feel full or uncomfortable. You may notice your newborn:

• Pulling away from the breast or bottle

• Squirming or arching their back

• Crying shortly after feeding

• Bringing their legs toward their tummy

• Spitting up after a feed

  
  

Burping gives that air a chance to come back up. However, not every baby needs to burp after every feeding. If your baby is calm and comfortable, it is okay if no burp comes out.

When Should You Burp a Newborn?

Most babies benefit from being burped during and after a feeding.

Try burping your newborn:

• When switching from one breast to the other

• About halfway through a bottle feeding

• At the end of every feeding

• Whenever your baby becomes fussy, stops feeding, or appears uncomfortable

  
  

Bottle-fed babies may need more frequent burping breaks because they can take in air more quickly. If your baby is feeding calmly and comfortably, you do not need to interrupt them too often.

How to Burp a Newborn Baby: 3 Safe Positions

Always support your baby’s head and neck. Keep a burp cloth close by, since small amounts of spit-up are common and usually normal.

1. Burping Baby Over Your Shoulder

The over-the-shoulder hold is one of the easiest and most popular newborn burping positions.

1. Place a burp cloth over your shoulder.

2. Hold your baby upright against your chest.

3. Let your baby’s chin rest gently near your shoulder.

4. Support their bottom with one hand.

5. With your free hand, softly pat or rub their upper back.

   
   

Use gentle pats. You do not need to pat hard for your baby to burp.

2. Burping Baby While Sitting on Your Lap

This position gives you a good view of your newborn and can work well after breast or bottle feeding.

1. Sit your baby upright on your lap, facing sideways or slightly forward.

2. Support their chest, neck, and head with one hand.

3. Gently lean your baby slightly forward.

4. Pat or rub their upper back with your other hand.

   
   

Be careful to support the jaw and chest without pressing on your baby’s throat.

3. Burping Baby Across Your Lap

Some babies are most comfortable lying across a parent’s lap.

1. Lay your baby face-down across your lap.

2. Keep their head slightly higher than their chest.

3. Support their head and neck at all times.

4. Rub or gently pat their back.

   
   

Only use this position while you are awake and actively holding your baby. For sleep, always place your baby on their back in a safe sleep space.

What If My Newborn Will Not Burp?

It is normal for some newborns not to burp after every feed. Hold your baby upright for a few minutes and try a gentle back rub or light pats.

If your baby does not burp but seems relaxed, content, and comfortable, there is usually no need to keep trying. If they become fussy after being put down, pick them up and give burping another try.

For example, a baby who finishes feeding, relaxes their hands, and falls asleep peacefully may not need a burp. A baby who squirms, cries, or seems uncomfortable shortly afterward may have trapped gas.

Tips to Help Reduce Gas During Feedings

These small adjustments can help make feeding and burping easier:

• Feed your baby in a calm, unhurried environment.

• Keep your baby slightly upright during bottle feeds.

• Use a bottle nipple with an appropriate flow rate.

• Pause when your baby gulps, coughs, or becomes fussy.

• Ensure your baby has a secure latch during breastfeeding.

• Keep your baby upright for a few minutes after feeding.

• Avoid vigorous patting, bouncing, or pressure on your baby’s stomach.

  
  

Newborn Night Support From Babies RN

Late-night feedings, burping, diaper changes, and settling can feel overwhelming when you are running on very little sleep. A knowledgeable newborn care professional can offer hands-on support while helping you feel more confident in your baby-care routine.

There is nothing better than having a Babies RN night nurse support you and guide you through burping sessions in the middle of the night.

Final Thoughts on Burping Your Newborn

Burping is an essential part of caring for your newborn. It helps release trapped air and can make your baby feel more comfortable. Remember, every baby is different. Some may need to burp more than others. Trust your instincts and pay attention to your baby's cues.

As new parents, it's natural to have questions and concerns. You're not alone in this journey! Embrace the learning process, and don't hesitate to reach out for help when needed. After all, you deserve to enjoy this precious time with your little one.