My baby spits up a bit after every meal, is something wrong?
Spitting up (regurgitation) is extremely common in the first year
of life, usually starting at a few weeks of age and resolving by
about 1 year of age, sometimes longer. Spitting up results from
a small amount of stomach contents backing up the esophagus shortly
after a feeding. In babies, the valve at the top of the stomach
is "weak", which allows for this process to occur. In most cases
it is harmless and does not distress the baby or cause weight loss.
It actually becomes more of a laundry issue for many parents.
Signs of Regurgitation:
- Volume of "spit up" is 1 to 2 mouthfuls
- Baby is not distressed
- Usually occurs after a feeding
- Baby is growing normally
Home Treatment:
- Feed smaller amounts - overfeeding will lead to regurgitation
- Space feedings at least every 2-3 hours
- Burp baby during feedings
- Do not diaper to tightly
- Avoid pressure on abdomen after feedings
- Keep in a more upright position after a feeding
- Elevate the head of the crib an inch or so
- Use lap pads and burp cloths - powdered formulas stain less
Call our office if:
- Notice any blood in the "spit up"
- Notice choking episodes or coughing after a "spit up"
- Do not see an improvement after using the home treatment plan
- Think your baby is not gaining weight
- Think your baby is sick, overly fussy, or has projectile "spit
ups"
- You have other questions or concerns
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