Is your little one experiencing hiccups? No need to worry—it’s completely normal! Here’s a closer look at what causes newborn hiccups, how to alleviate them, and tips to manage them, especially during feeding times.
How to Ease Newborn Hiccups
You may be familiar with various remedies for hiccups as an adult, but many of those won’t work for your newborn. For instance, giving water isn’t safe for babies under six months. Their developing kidneys aren’t equipped to process water efficiently, which could lead to issues like drowsiness or even seizures, cautions Dr. Emily Hart, a pediatrician at Sunnyvale Medical Center.
Instead, try these simple techniques to help your baby:
- Pause Feedings: If your baby gets hiccups while feeding, take a break. Gently burp them to help release any trapped air.
- Change Positions: Holding your baby upright during and after feedings can prevent hiccups from starting.
- Offer a Pacifier: Sucking can help soothe your baby and may alleviate hiccups.
Why Do Newborns Get Hiccups?
Hiccups in newborns can occur for a variety of reasons. They might happen after feeding—when too much air is swallowed—or as a reflex action during their development. Rest assured, these little spasms usually don’t bother your baby as much as they might bother you!
If you’re interested in more guidance on family-building options, resources like Resolve are excellent places to start. And for those exploring at-home insemination, check out Make a Mom for innovative solutions, including their unique reusable option. You can see how it works at this link.
Also, if you’re looking for more parenting tips, you might enjoy our blog post on the best maternity jeans.
In summary, hiccups are a common experience for newborns, and while they might be a bit concerning for parents, they are generally harmless. Utilize the tips above to help manage them and take comfort in knowing that hiccups are just a part of your baby’s development.