Breastfeeding and Spit-Up (Reflux-Like Symptoms in Babies)

Discover the Advantages of Breastfeeding for Your Baby's Health and Well-being

• Breastfeeding offers many calming and supportive benefits for your baby's well-being. Human milk is naturally gentle and tends to digest more easily than formula. Some parents observe that their breastfed babies experience less spit-up and fussiness after feeds, likely due to the way breastmilk empties from the stomach more efficiently. This can support feeding comfort for some babies.

• Another advantage of breastfeeding is the bond it creates between mother and baby. When your little one is unsettled, breastfeeding can offer a natural way to soothe and comfort them. The hormones released during nursing promote relaxation, which may also help ease feelings of stress. Breastfeeding allows you to stay attuned to your baby's needs and cues, which is especially helpful when navigating feeding challenges.

•  If you are finding feeding challenging due to frequent spit-up or unsettled behaviour, there are a few gentle techniques that may support your baby during nursing. Try minimising distractions by feeding in a quiet, calm environment, or nursing when your baby is drowsy. Skin-to-skin contact, cuddling, and experimenting with different nursing positions or baby slings may also help provide comfort.

• If your baby frequently spits up or appears unsettled during or after feeds, you could try burping them more often and keeping them upright during and after feeding. Some parents find that smaller, more frequent feeds help maintain feeding comfort. You may also wish to observe whether certain foods in your diet, such as dairy, citrus, tomatoes, spicy meals, high-fat foods, carbonated drinks, or processed foods, appear to affect your baby, and consider making adjustments in consultation with your healthcare provider.

• In the past, adding cereal to feeds was sometimes recommended to reduce spit-up, but this practice is no longer advised for breastfed babies, as it may interfere with natural feeding rhythms. If feeding difficulties persist or you have concerns about your baby’s comfort, it is always best to speak with a healthcare professional for individualised support

Breastfeeding can be a learning journey, and every baby is different. The comfort, connection, and flexibility it offers can be valuable during feeding challenges. Working closely with your healthcare provider can help you find the most suitable feeding strategies for your baby’s needs.

This blog is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional for personalised guidance regarding your baby’s health and feeding needs.