Burping a baby

By Dr Chanell Marthinussen, Innohealth Clinic

Being a mom of a 2-year-old, I’ve burped many nights and days (almost 1 000 days) and when my pregnant best friend Whatsapped me to ask, “Do all babies have to be burped?” – my immediate response was “YESSS!”.

Burping a baby is an essential part of infant care that many parents may not even think about before having a baby. It plays a critical role in preventing discomfort and digestive issues in newborns whether bottle feeding or breastfeeding. However, some babies might burp easily and some might need some more help. Let’s explore the importance of burping, how to do it effectively, and various techniques to make the process easier for both you and your baby.

Why is burping important?

1. It relieves gas: babies often swallow air while feeding, which can lead to gas buildup in their stomachs. Burping helps release this trapped air, reducing discomfort and fussiness.

2. It prevents spitting up: by releasing air, burping can minimise the likelihood of spitting up, allowing for a more comfortable feeding experience.

3. It promotes comfort: a burped baby is generally more content, as they are less likely to experience bloating or discomfort from trapped gas.

4. It encourages feeding: a baby who feels comfortable is more likely to continue feeding effectively. Proper burping can help ensure they get the nourishment they need.

When to burp your baby

• During feeding: it’s recommended to burp your baby midway through and at the end of each feeding.
• After feeding: always try to burp your baby after they finish eating to help clear any air they may have swallowed.

Techniques for burping a baby

There are many effective techniques for burping your baby and you may have to alternate and choose the most comfortable for you and your baby.

Over the shoulder: hold your baby against you with their chin resting on your shoulder. Support their bottom with one hand while gently patting or rubbing their back with the other. This position provides comfort and allows gravity to help release trapped air.

Sitting on your lap: sit your baby upright on your lap, supporting their chest and head with one hand. Use your other hand to gently pat or rub their back. This position can be especially effective for babies who are alert and sitting well.

Lying across your lap: lay your baby face down across your lap, ensuring their head is higher than their stomach. Use one hand to support their head and the other to pat or rub their back. This method can be soothing and can help release gas.

Often, it might feel like all you’re doing is feeding and burping, so here are 4 tips for effective burping:

1. Be patient: some babies burp quickly, while others may take a little longer. If you don’t hear a burp right away, continue patting gently for a few minutes. Generally, after 3 good burps, babies are more comfortable.

• Change positions: if one position doesn’t seem to work, try switching to another technique. Babies may respond better to different positions at different times.

• Watch for signs: look for cues that your baby is uncomfortable, such as fussiness or arching their back, which may indicate they need to be burped.

• Keep a cloth handy: keep a burp cloth or bib on hand, as some babies may spit up after burping. Burp cloth that helped me – large white toweling nappies!

Burping is a vital part of caring for your baby, ensuring their comfort and aiding digestion. By using the techniques outlined above and being attentive to your baby’s needs, you can help them feel more at ease during and after feeding. Remember, each baby is different, so patience and practice will help you find the best approach for your little one. Happy parenting!

Dr Chanell Marthinussen, a general practitioner and founder of The F-word, hails from Bonteheuwel, Cape Flats. Graduating from Stellenbosch University in 2018, she completed her internship at Paarl Hospital and community service at Mowbray Maternity Hospital. Passionate about women’s health, Dr Marthinussen educates females on reproductive health and menstrual hygiene through her business. Currently, she heads the MyPocketHealth virtual healthcare platform and is also the base general practioner at the Innohealth Medical Centres Tyger Waterfront branch. She aspires to specialise in Obstetrics and Gynaecology as her mission is to empower women to make informed decisions about their health and futures.