how to solve gas problem in baby

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How to Help Relieve Gas in Babies

Last Updated: March 29, 2019 References

This article was co-authored by Laura Marusinec, MD . Dr. Marusinec is a board certified Pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, where she is on the Clinical Practice Council. She received her M.D. from the Medical College of Wisconsin School of Medicine in 1995 and completed her residency at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Pediatrics in 1998. She is a member of the American Medical Writers Association and the Society for Pediatric Urgent Care. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 159,807 times.

Gas pain is a very common in babies and it can cause your baby—and you—discomfort. [1] X Research source Gas is often caused by swallowing air when crying or feeding or from the digestion process. [2] X Research source Even though gas can cause pain for your baby, it is generally harmless. By promoting the release of gas and preventing it, you can help relieve your baby’s gas.

Releasing Baby’s Gas

• Pulling up her legs
• Clenching her fists
• Squirming around as if she’s uncomfortable
• Crying a lot
• Burping [4] X Research source

• Move your baby’s legs gently so you don’t hurt her.
• Talk to your baby while you’re moving her legs. This may distract her from her pain and also comfort her.

• Make sure your baby is awake during tummy time and that you supervise her the entire time. [7] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
• Put your baby on her tummy on the floor or across your lap for at least 20 minutes a day. [8] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source You can do this more often if she is gassy and not fussy during tummy time.

• Rub your baby’s belly in a clockwise motion while she is lying on her back. [10] X Research source
• Try a combination of massaging and bicycling to move and expel gas.

• Avoid swaddling if your baby can roll to minimize the risk of SIDS or suffocation. [13] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
• Follow guidelines for safely swaddling your infant, which may help relieve her gas and help her sleep. [14] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source

• Use the “gas hold” by holding your baby securely over your arm facing down. You can gently rock her in this position. [16] X Research source
• Rock your baby in a rocker or in your arms, which may move and expel gas. [17] X Research source
• Bounce your baby gently up and down. You can do this either while you’re standing or by sitting your baby on your lap and bouncing her. [18] X Research source

• Look for anti-gas products with simethicone such as Mylicon, Little Tummies, or Phazyme. [21] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
• Follow packaging instructions.
• Ask your pediatrician or pharmacist any questions you may have about the drops or using them.

• Speak with your baby’s doctor before using probiotics for gas. Ask the doctor if probiotics could help your baby. [24] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source
• Look for products with Lactobacillus reuteri, which studies have shown can significantly reduce colic and may help your baby swallow less gas-causing air. [25] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

• Tell your doctor what you’ve done to relieve the gas and if it is effective. Give the doctor any helpful information about your baby-- from eating to pooping habits.

Preventing Gas

• You can also try to determine the reason why your baby is crying. For example, you baby might be crying because she is hungry, so feeding a little earlier than usual may help. [26] X Research source

• Feed your baby more often but decrease how much you give her so that there is less pressure in her belly. [29] X Research source
• Try out different sizes and types of bottles and nipples. Different models can slow the flow of liquid and the amount of air into her belly. [30] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
• Tilt the bottle to a 30 or 40 degree angle so that the air rises to the bottom of the bottle. [31] X Research source
• Make sure your baby’s lip are on the wide base of the nipple and not just the tip. [32] X Research source
• Try a different type of formula after consulting with your doctor. [33] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source
• Allow the formula to settle after shaking or mixing it, or use a ready-to-feed formula. [34] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source

• Nurse your baby more frequently during the day to reduce the amount she has in her belly. [35] X Research source
• Make sure your baby’s lips are sealed far back on your areola. [36] X Research source
• See what causes your baby’s gas by eliminating certain foods for two weeks. Common problem foods include broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans, cauliflower, cabbage, and onions. [37] X Research source Add food back in as you realize it doesn’t cause gas. [38] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source For example, cut out foods most likely to cause allergies like dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat and fish. [39] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

• Hold your baby at a 45 degree angle if possible. [42] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals Go to source

• Place your baby upright on your shoulder and pat her back.
• Sit her upright on your lap and lean her forward slightly while you rub or pat her back. Put your hand under her chin to support her chest and head.
• Lay your baby on her belly across your lap with her head slightly elevated while you rub and pat her back. [45] X Trustworthy Source HealthyChildren.org Health information from the American Academy of Pediatrics. Go to source

Video . By using this service, some information may be shared with YouTube.

Expert Q&A

You might also like.

• ↑ http://www.thebump.com/a/gas-pain-baby
• ↑ http://www.parents.com/baby/care/gas/best-remedies-for-gas-reflux/
• ↑ http://americanpregnancy.org/first-year-of-life/colic/
• ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Breaking-Up-Gas.aspx
• ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/expert-answers/tummy-time/faq-20057755
• ↑ https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/diapers-clothing/Pages/Swaddling-Is-it-Safe.aspx
• ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colic/basics/treatment/con-20019091
• ↑ http://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/infants-treatment#Feeding2
• ↑ http://www.askdrsears.com/topics/health-concerns/fussy-baby/comforting-gassy-baby
• ↑ http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colic/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20019091

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Gassy Baby: All About Helping Your Baby With Gas

If you haven’t experienced the world of infant gas, you’re in for a wild (and sometimes smelly) ride! But it’s important to know that having a gassy baby is normal, especially during the newborn stage when the digestive system is still maturing. Sometimes, though, your little one’s grunts, grimaces, and cries might worry you, and so you may wonder how to help your baby with gas. Read on to learn more about gassy newborns, what causes an excess of gas, and how to relieve baby gas.

What Causes Gas in Babies?

Starting with the first feeding , babies shift from obtaining nutrients from the placenta to drinking and digesting breast milk or formula. That’s a big adjustment for a small digestive system that’s still developing, and it’s a chief reason that gas naturally occurs in infants. Overall, it takes time for your little one’s gastrointestinal tract to fully develop and build a microbiome (the mix of tiny organisms in the body, including healthy gut bacteria). And when a still-developing digestive system is challenged by too much air being swallowed, as often happens during a feeding, you’re even more likely to have a gassy baby.

Baby Gas Symptoms

You might notice that you have a gassy baby when you smell something or hear something, but there are other possible signs and symptoms of baby gas, too, including:

Spitting up. It’s very common for babies to spit up after feedings. This is typically caused by swallowing too much air in the process, which leads to gas. Spit-up is good, though, as it gets the air out before moving to the stomach and digestive tract.

Crying. Gas is just as uncomfortable for babies as it is for adults. The discomfort may cause your newborn to cry or be “fussy.”

Drawing legs up. If your baby moves their legs up toward the belly, it could be a sign of abdominal pain caused by gas. Your little one is trying to relieve the discomfort with this motion.

Reduced appetite. Another common symptom of baby gas is a reduced appetite. A gassy baby may suffer from cramping or bloating, followed by diarrhea. This discomfort could affect their appetite.

Why Is My Baby So Gassy?

There’s no reason to be embarrassed by this question—you’re not the only parent asking! Excess infant gas can result from several different factors, especially if you notice your baby crying or screaming in pain from gas.

Food sensitivities or allergies. It’s not uncommon for newborns to have food sensitivities that cause infant gas. A gassy breastfed baby is more susceptible to these sensitivities, which typically come from the mother’s diet. True food allergies are less common and will most likely cause other problems, such as hives or wheezing, so you’ll want to consult your child’s healthcare provider ASAP.

Lactose intolerance. Most experts recommend baby formula produced with cow’s milk for its nutritional value. But if you use this type of formula and your baby is lactose intolerant, you may notice more gas, loose stools, nausea, and vomiting.

Overeating due to breast milk oversupply or breast engorgement. If you’re breastfeeding and experience breast engorgement or an oversupply of breast milk, a gassy baby may be inevitable. Your newborn may instinctively gulp milk quickly, causing more air to make its way into their tummy. Later on, this air can form gas bubbles.

How to Relieve Baby Gas

So, what helps babies with gas? There are plenty of effective strategies and home remedies to help your newborn baby with gas problems. The trick is to break up the gas bubbles that have formed in the abdomen and digestive tract. The following strategies and remedies may help.

1. Burp During and After Feedings

Because gas bubbles tend to form from the air that sneaks in during feeding, burping is your friend. It releases air that can turn into gas bubbles in the tummy. Although it’s standard practice to burp your baby after feeding them if they suffer from gas, you can try burping during feeding as well. This can help provide your baby some gas relief, especially at night when feeding before bed.

2. Encourage Slow Eating

If your baby eats too fast, they tend to swallow more air and develop more gas bubbles. You can encourage slower eating by using a bottle with a slow-flow nipple. If you’re breastfeeding and experiencing an oversupply of breast milk, speak to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant .

3. Use the Right Bottle

Slow-flow nipples are a game-changer, but so are slow-flow, vented, angled, or collapsible baby bottles . Professionals designed these varieties to limit the amount of air your baby swallows while eating.

4. Identify Food Sensitivities

If your little one appears particularly uncomfortable after being breastfed, they could be sensitive to the foods you’re eating. You can try to identify these foods and eliminate them from your diet for at least one week to see if it helps your gassy baby. Some common foods that may cause gas in breastfed babies include those with caffeine ], plus dairy products, onions, cabbage, and spicy foods.

5. Change Formula

Determining the best formula for gassy babies depends on individual factors. To start, most experts will recommend formulas with a cow’s-milk base. But as mentioned above, your little one might have a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. In that case, a soy-based formula fortified with iron, or a hypoallergenic formula, might be a better choice. If you’re considering swapping formulas, it’s best to consult your child’s healthcare provider. A gassy baby might not need to change to a different formula, but the provider will be able to address the problem and help you successfully switch if needed.

6. Position Your Baby for Gas Relief

There are a few positions that can help your baby with gas by supporting the stomach and digestive system.

Left side. Gently roll your baby onto the left side while holding them in your arms. You may want to rub their back to help keep them calm.

On the back. Place your baby on the back while moving their legs as if they were cycling. Lying on the back is also the best sleeping position for a gassy baby (and the best and safest sleeping position for all infants until their first birthday).

On the tummy. Tummy time has lots of benefits, among them being that it may help aid digestion. A little pressure on the abdomen may keep things moving and help break up those gas bubbles. Watch the video below to pick up some tips on tummy time sessions, and remember to supervise your baby during tummy time.

7. Try Baby Gas Drops

In searching for how to help a baby with gas, some parents choose to try baby gas drops. Gas medicine for babies doesn’t always work, but it could be worth a try if other remedies don’t provide any relief. Baby gas drops typically use simethicone, which causes an antifoaming effect to relieve bloating and pain caused by gas. It’s generally thought to be safe for babies, but make sure you read the label and instructions so you know how much to give your baby. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider before giving your newborn or young baby any medicine, even over-the-counter varieties.

Gassy Baby or Colic?

Your baby’s primary way of communication is crying, and since gas can result in crying or fussiness, it’s often mistaken for colic . Colic is a little different, though. Colic occurs when healthy babies cry repeatedly, intensely, and for prolonged periods of time, often at the same time each day. If the culprit is gas, you’ll be able to find some relief; babies with colic usually cry for no apparent reason and can’t always be soothed. However, there is some overlap between a baby with colic and a gassy baby. Contributing factors for both conditions may include

an underdeveloped digestive system

imbalance of bacteria in the gut (microbiome)

food allergies or sensitivities

overfeeding

not burping enough.

There are still many unknowns about colic, but it’s common for babies to grow out of it or the symptoms to lessen by 4 months . Still, every baby is different, and your child’s healthcare provider can help you better understand the condition and offer advice on how to help your baby with gas or colic.

The Bottom Line

Yes, a gassy baby is normal, but of course, you may still want to know how to help your baby with gas. Chances are, the problem is just temporary as your newborn develops a strong digestive system and gets used to a new diet of breast milk or formula. Use the information above to understand how to relieve baby gas. If the gas is intense or causing your baby pain, talk to your child’s healthcare provider. Your little one may have a food allergy or simply need a different type of formula. Just remember that babies cry to communicate and that you’re doing a great job! Gas is normal, cries are normal, and your child’s healthcare provider is there to help when needed. Read more about how your baby develops in their first few months or take our quiz below to discover your baby’s temperament.

How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.

• American Academy of Pediatrics. Caring for Your Baby and Young Child: Birth to Age 5, 7th ed. (New York: Bantam Books, 2019).
• Healthy Children. “Breaking Up Gas.”
• Healthy Children. “How to Calm a Fussy Baby.”
• Healthy Children. “Lactose Intolerance in Infants and Children.”
• Healthy Children. “Why Babies Spit Up.”
• Kids Health. “Breastfeeding FAQs.”
• Kids Health. “Communication and Your 1- to 3-Month-Old.”
• Kids Health. “Formula Feeding FAQs.”
• LLLI. “Feed the Baby—And the Microbes.”
• Mayo Clinic. “Colic.”
• MedlinePlus. “Abdominal Pain.”
• MedlinePlus. “Changes in the Newborn at Birth.”
• NIH. “Development of the Digestive System.”

Dr. Terri Major-Kincade is a double-board certified neonatologist and pediatrician. She is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at UT Health, Houston, McGovern Medical School where she serves as the Medical Director for Pediatric Palliative Care at C...

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How to Help a Newborn with Gas

Published on Oct 04, 2022

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Gas. It’s a topic most people avoid thinking about until they have a newborn. Then, suddenly, baby burps and farts become a huge source of parental distress.

Why is my newborn so gassy?

Got a gassy newborn? You’re not alone. According to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) Pediatricians, Julie Kardos, MD , and Naline Lai, MD , all babies are gassy in their first two months of life. Yes, all.

Having just spent nine months as fetuses developing in fluid, newborns have no experience with air until they take their first breath. Then, if they swallow some air when they cry or feed, eventually, some of the air comes up as a burp. 

Gas expelled from below (farts) comes from a different source. As babies drink formula or breast milk, farts in the first few days can be a good sign that their guts are waking up. As time goes on, some liquid in the intestines may remain undigested, and the normal gut bacteria “eat” the food. The bacteria produce gas as a byproduct of their eating. Thus: A fart is produced.

Either way, the gas wants desperately to escape, but young babies are not very good at getting it out and they are not accustomed to the sensation. So, newborns ball up, grunt, turn red, wake up from a sound sleep, or scream until they eventually produce thunderous burps and farts.

Gas is part of life

If your infant is feeding well, gaining weight adequately, passing soft mushy stools that are green, yellow or brown (but NOT bloody, white or black), then the grunting, straining, turning red, and crying with gas is harmless and does not imply that your baby has a belly problem or a milk or formula intolerance. As reassuring as that may be, Dr. Kardos and Dr. Lai acknowledge how difficult it is to see your infant appear uncomfortable.

How to help infants with gas

Try these tips if your young baby is bothered by gas:

• Start feedings before your infant cries a long time from hunger.  When infants cry from hunger, they swallow air. When a frantically hungry baby starts to feed, they will gulp quickly and swallow more air than usual. If your infant is wide awake crying and it’s been at least one or two hours from the last feeding, try to start another feeding.
• Burp after your infant is done feeding.  If you are breastfeeding, hold your child upright before switching breasts to give them a chance to burp. Avoid interrupting a feed to check for a burp. Your baby will make a switch from vigorous nutritive sucking to comfort sucking/pull off when they need to burp. When bottle feeding, hold your infant upright for a few minutes after feedings to allow for extra burps. You can also experiment with different nipples and bottle shapes (different ones work better for different babies) to see which one allows your infant to feed without gulping too quickly and without sputtering. If a burp seems stuck, lay your child down for a minute and then bring them upright and try again.
• Pay attention to positioning.  Unlike you, a baby cannot change position easily and may need a little help moving the gas out of their system. Some positioning tips: Feed your baby as upright as possible; lay your child on their back and pedal their legs with your hands to help expel gas from below; if your child is awake after a feeding, place them on their belly.
• Increase tummy time.  Give your child plenty of tummy time throughout the day while they are awake.

Common gas questions & answers

As CHOP Primary Care Pediatricians, Dr. Kardos and Dr. Lai have fielded many gas inquiries from parents of newborns. Below are some common questions they get asked and their insights on each.

Q: Will changing a breastfeeding mother’s diet or trying formula changes help decrease a baby’s discomfort from gas?

A: There is no absolute correlation between a certain food in the maternal diet and the production of gas in a baby. However, a nursing mom may find a particular food “gas inducing.” Be careful about avoiding too many foods, a nursing mom needs nutrients from a variety of sources to make healthy breast milk. If you are bottle feeding, try a formula change for a week at a time; if there is no effect on your baby’s gas, go back to the original formula.

Q: Do gas drops help? (And are they safe?)

A: For farting, if you find that the standard FDA-approved simethicone drops help, then you can use them as the label specifies. If they do not help, stop using them.

Q: Do probiotics help?

A: Unfortunately, there is not a lot of data about using probiotics to treat gas in infants. Probiotics may help other pediatric conditions such as the duration of acute diarrhea, and while deemed mostly harmless in otherwise healthy infants, they have not been shown to affect gas.

There’s good news

This piece ends as it began: with reassurance. The discomfort from gas will pass. Gas discomfort from burps and farts typically peaks at six weeks and improves immensely by 3 months of age. At that point, even the fussiest babies tend to settle.

Contributed by: Julie Kardos, MD, FAAP , Naline Lai, MD, FAAP

Stay in Touch

Are you looking for advice to keep your child healthy and happy? Do you have questions about common childhood illnesses and injuries? Subscribe to our Health Tips newsletter to receive health and wellness tips from the pediatric experts at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, straight to your inbox. Read some recent tips .

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Have a Gassy Baby? What to Know About Infant Gas Symptoms, Remedies and Causes

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Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.

Why is my baby so gassy?

Gassy baby signs and symptoms, gassy baby causes, what are the best remedies for baby gas relief, burp your baby twice, control the air, feed your baby before meltdowns, try the colic carry, offer infant gas drops, do baby bicycles, encourage tummy time , give your baby a rub-down, check your diet if you're breastfeeding, test new formulas, talk to your doctor about chamomile tea, try baby gripe water, consider probiotics, what infant gas drops are safe and effective, can breastfeeding make a baby gassy, what's the best formula for a gassy baby, how can i tell the difference between regular infant gas and colic, when to call the doctor for a gassy baby.

If your baby is gassy but gaining weight and peeing and  pooping normally for his age , everything is probably going exactly as expected, and you'll likely just need to wait it out. Baby gas does pass — pun intended!

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes a gassy baby, how can i tell if my baby is gassy, how can i relieve my baby's gas, how can i prevent gas in my baby, can gas drops or other remedies for gas be harmful to my baby, updates history, go to your baby's age, trending on what to expect, the covid-19 vaccine for infants, toddlers and young children, how to create a night shift system when you have a newborn, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., when do babies start laughing, baby-led weaning, what happens in the ‘4th trimester’ (and is it a real thing), read this next.

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8 Ways to Prevent Gas in Babies and Toddlers

Gas can cause uncomfortable stomach pains in babies and toddlers. Here's how to prevent gas with a few smart strategies from our experts.

Rumbling little tummies are fun for no one. Protect your baby or toddler's stomach with these doctor-recommended strategies to help prevent gas.

RELATED : Signs Your Baby Has Gas

Offer a Pacifier

Sucking on a Binky is comforting and “wakes up” the GI tract, which may help gas get moving. —Samira Armin, M.D., a pediatrician at Texas Children’s Pediatrics in Houston

Teach your child deep breathing, and offer a shoulder massage or a tummy rub. Any type of relaxation can lessen his abdominal pain. —John Rosen, M.D., a pediatric gastroenterologist at Children’s Mercy, in Kansas City, Missouri

Schedule Bathroom Trips

Take advantage of the tendency to have a bowel movement after eating by having your kid spend five minutes, but no more than that, on the toilet after meals. —Dr. Rosen

Get Her Off the Couch

When kids are sitting around all the time, so are their intestines. The GI tract just plain functions better when there is regular cardio activity in a child’s day. —Jeremiah Levine, M.D., director of pediatric gastroenterology at NYU Langone Health

RELATED : Foods That Cause Gas in Babies

Soften Things Up

If constipation accompanies your kid’s gas, you may want to mix tasteless, odorless MiraLAX into his beverage each day to draw more water into the colon and soften the stool. Talk to your pediatrician about the right dose for your child’s age. —Jean Molleston, M.D., a pediatric gastroenterologist with Riley Hospital for Children at Indiana University Health

Cut Out Gum and Soda

Chewing gum and drinking carbonated beverages allows big kids to take in excess air that contributes to gas. —Dr. Levine

Serve More Fiber

Offer more nuts, whole grains, fruits, and veggies. Fiber is a prebiotic that is used by intestinal bacteria and can improve motility. —Dr. Levine

RELATED : The Best Remedies for Gas & Reflux

Try Probiotics

If you don’t see improvement in three to four weeks, stop spending money on it. —Dr. Rosen

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Gas pain in children

Gas pain in children and toddlers is rarely serious – but it can be uncomfortable and keep a gassy toddler up at night.

Is it normal for kids and toddlers to have gas pain?

What are the symptoms of gas pain in kids, what causes gas pain in kids, gas pain relief tips for kids, what to do about toddler gas pains at night, can i give my child medications for gas pains, should i worry if my child has gas pains.

Yes, it's perfectly normal for kids and toddlers to have gas pain. Unless your child is experiencing more than minor discomfort and complaining a lot, it's generally not a cause for concern.

Gas may happen once in a while – for example, when your child is constipated or after overindulging at a party. If your child is often gassy, it's possible that a particular food or eating habit is to blame. Gas pain is actually a sign of excess gas in their digestive tract. But most of the time, the excess gas should clear up on its own.

If you've ever dealt with toddler gas pains at night, you know the symptoms of gas pain can make it hard for your child to sleep. No matter the time of day, gas pain can feel uncomfortable for your child. Symptoms of gas pain include:

• Frequent burping or flatulence
• Abdominal bloating
• Pain or burning in their belly
• Possibly nausea

Ask your older child to describe their abdominal pain or stomach ache . Stomach pain over more than half the belly is typical for gas, constipation, indigestion, or diarrhea. Gas can also feel like a cramp, which may be followed by diarrhea. If you have an infant or toddler, they could be having gas pain if they are more fussy than usual, not eating like normal, and drawing their legs up toward their belly.

Your child's diet often plays a role in their gas pain or indigestion. Certain foods like beans, broccoli, and cauliflower are all culprits. Some children may be sensitive to high-fiber foods, such as cereal, and fatty foods, like French fries. Carbonated beverages and caffeine – even that in chocolate – can also be to blame. Juice, which is high in sugar, can bring on gas and diarrhea. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting how much – if any – juice you offer your child based on age:

• Younger than 12 months: No juice
• Ages 1 to 3: No more than 4 ounces (1/2 cup) a day
• Ages 4 to 6: No more than 6 ounces (1/2 to 3/4 cup) a day

Not drinking enough water can also lead to gas pain. While drinking water won't eliminate a gas problem, upping your child's fluid intake can help relieve constipation , which often coincides with gas and abdominal discomfort.

Other factors that cause gas pain include:

• A developing digestive system: Your toddler's body may not yet fully absorb a food – like the sugar in a sweet beverage. That food ends up in their colon, where it's fermented by bacteria. This process can cause gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
• Chewing gum: The artificial sweeteners in sugar-free gum are difficult for some children to digest. They get trapped in the colon and are fermented into intestinal gas. Chewing gum also increases the odds of swallowing excess air.
• Moving around during meals: When kids move around and play while they eat, instead of sitting at the table, they tend to get excited, eat fast, and gulp, all of which can increase air in their intestinal tracts. Moving around while eating also increases the risk of choking.
• Screen time during meals: If your child eats while engaged in another activity, such as watching a video, they may ignore their body's signals that they're full and overeat, which can cause gas.
• An underlying health condition: Constipation is a common cause of gas in children. If gas is accompanied by other tummy troubles – like pain, vomiting, or a change in bowel movements – it's possible your child has an underlying health condition, such as lactose intolerance or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

There are a few things you can do to relieve gas pain at home. To get rid of gas pain, first look at your child's diet. Observe which types of foods cause your child to have painful gas and limit or avoid them. Don't overload him with too many gas-inducing veggies at consecutive meals. Avoid fatty foods, caffeine and carbonated drinks, and limit or cut out juice. If you give your child juice, only use 100 percent fruit juice. (Learn more about the best and worst drinks for kids .)

As your child grows, their body will be better able to handle a greater variety of foods. In the meantime, try to reintroduce small amounts of gas-producing foods into their diet periodically. Increase the amount slowly, based on their response. In addition, encourage your child to drink from a water bottle throughout the day. As a general rule, your children should drink approximately one 8-ounce cup of water for each year of life up to a maximum of 8 cups. For example, a 3-year old should drink 3 cups (24 ounces) per day. The exact amount may vary based on your child's weight. You could also discuss their diet with their healthcare provider, who might have other suggestions.

Lastly, encourage your child to sit at the table with you during meals, chew their food well, and take their time while eating. Be sure to turn off all screens and focus on eating. Reassure them that she'll have time to play after the meal.

Gas pains at night are relatively common for both toddlers and adults. Gas builds up in the intestines during the day, so we often pass more gas at nighttime. During the day, monitor your child's diet and have them eat smaller meals, slowly if they can. Incorporate plenty of physical activity during their day as well. If your gassy toddler can't sleep at night, offer them small sips of water and have them walk around a little to try to move gas through the digestive tract.

A few over-the-counter medications and remedies offer gas relief for kids. Consult with your child's healthcare provider before giving any medication to your child. Some gas pain relief options you can ask about include:

• Over-the-counter anti-gas medicine: Anti-gas medicine containing simethicone dissolves gas bubbles and prevents gas pockets in the intestines and stomach. It's generally considered safe, but there is little evidence as to whether it really works. Don't combine anti-gas medicine with any other stomach medicine or antacid that also contains simethicone. Also, avoid simethicone drops that contain sodium benzoate or benzoic acid.
• Antacids: Antacids neutralize stomach acid and may help if your child is dealing with heartburn or indigestion in addition to gas. Talk to your doctor first as antacids aren't recommended for long-term use and can even cause side effects like constipation and diarrhea.
• Gripe water: Gripe water is an herbal solution not regulated by the FDA that is thought to help with gas. Like most medications to treat gas, the effectiveness is variable. Gripe water usually includes water, baking soda, and a variety of herbs like ginger and fennel. It might also include sweeteners. Talk to your doctor if you want to give gripe water a try.
• Probiotics: Probiotics are microorganisms that may help re-establish the intestines' normal physiological environment. Some have been shown to reduce the duration and frequency of diarrhea, although more research is needed. There are many different probiotics available over-the-counter, as well as in cultured dairy products, so talk to your pediatrician about what might be best for your child.

As uncomfortable as gas pain is for a child (or anyone!), it will most likely clear up on its own. If you're concerned or have questions about your child's gas pain, don't hesitate to call their doctor. Talk to your provider right away if you're noticing any of the below symptoms:

• They have pain so severe they can't move without causing more pain
• Bloody stools
• Swelling of the abdomen
• Severe tenderness when you touch their stomach
• Skin that appears yellow
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Difficulty sitting in a comfortable position

Stomach ache in babies and toddlers

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BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're seeing. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies .

Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital. A to Z: Flatulence, Eructation, and Gas Pain. Undated. https://www.hopkinsallchildrens.org/Patients-Families/Health-Library/HealthDocNew/A-to-Z-Flatulence-Eructation-and-Gas-Pain Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Medline Plus. Abdominal Pain – Children Under 12. 2021. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007504.htm Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Scripps. Stomach Pain in Kids and Teens. 2019. https://www.scripps.org/news_items/6821-stomach-pain-in-kids-and-teens Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Healthy Children. Where We Stand: Fruit Juice. 2017. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/nutrition/Pages/Where-We-Stand-Fruit-Juice.aspx Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Texas Children's Hospital. Over-the-Counter Medications for Kids Part 2. Undated. https://www.texaschildrens.org/blog/2014/05/over-counter-medications-kids-%E2%80%93-part-2-constipation-gasindigestion-and-probiotics Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

GI Society. Intestinal Gas. Undated. https://badgut.org/information-centre/a-z-digestive-topics/intestinal-gas/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Mayo Clinic. Home Remedies: Gas, Belching, and Bloating. 2016. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/home-remedies-gas-belching-and-bloating/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

NHS. Antacids. 2019. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/antacids/ Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

NIH. Treatment for GER and GERD in Children. 2020. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-children/treatment Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Mayo Clinic. Stomach Ache in Children: How to Know If It's Serious. 2021. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/stomachache-in-children-how-to-know-if-its-serious Opens a new window [Accessed April 2022]

Maggie Getz is a freelance writer and editor specializing in health, wellness, and motherhood. She lives in Colorado with her husband and young son and daughter. She enjoys hiking, yoga, baking (and eating said baked goods), as well as connecting with other moms.

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Gas Problem in Infants – Signs, Causes, and Treatment

Video: Gas Problems in Babies – Causes, Signs & Remedies

How does gas form in babies, signs and symptoms of gas in babies, infographics: gas in babies, home remedial measures to treat gas problem in babies, video  : baby gas problem home remedies, what you can do to prevent gas problem in your baby, when should you call a doctor.

We all have experienced gas pain – it’s uncomfortable AND unwanted. Gas pain can be extremely uncomfortable, and more so for babies. All babies have gas pain and they expel gas often during the day – it is a common occurrence in babies.

If your little one has gas pain, he can’t voice it of course, but you can look for other signs that might help you understand whether he is gassy. If he becomes restless, cries incessantly, or has trouble falling asleep, chances are he might be experiencing gas pain. If your baby has gas pain and he is fussy and squirms a lot, it may be because of gas. Learn here how you can prevent and treat gas in babies.

Infants swallow a lot of air while breastfeeding due to incorrect latching or because of an incorrect posture while bottle-feeding. And sometimes, they digest proteins and fats present in the breast milk or the formula. Gas makes its way out of the baby’s system by building up a small amount of pressure and moving along the digestive tract. However, sometimes, when there is excess gas trapped in the intestines, it can build pressure and result in pain. It is normal for a baby to experience gas pain. Some of the reasons for gas build-up in the baby’s digestive system are mentioned below:

Swallowing air: Swallowing air while being breastfed or bottle-fed is one of the main causes of gas build-up in babies. If a baby latches onto the breast  incorrectly or if they suck on the formula bottle incorrectly, they might swallow air. This could lead to gas in him.

Crying: If a baby cries incessantly while being fed or before being fed, he may swallow air. If the baby cries excessively, it can be a sign of gas build-up. If your baby cries all the time, it may get difficult for you to identify the reason for his cries, but you will soon be able to decode his different types of cries. For now, you can tend to his needs and soothe him. However, if he doesn’t stop crying, you should take him to a doctor.

Immature digestive system: A newborn’s intestine is still developing. As a result of the underdeveloped digestive system, the baby would still be learning how to process food and pass stools, leading to excess gas being formed.

Underdeveloped bacterial flora: A baby may also have gas as a result of the underdeveloped bacterial flora in the intestine.

Eating certain foods while nursing: Breast milk contains traces of foods that the mother consumes. If you eat certain foods like nuts, coffee, beans, milk products such as cheese, butter, and ghee in your nursing phase, it may get passed on to your baby and make him gassy.

Baby being overfed: If the baby is overfed, it can cause problems by overwhelming the baby’s gut leading to gas production. It is also thought that foremilk and hindmilk during breastfeeding has an impact on the production of gas. The foremilk is rich in sugars such as lactose and the hindmilk is richer in fat. Lactose overload may contribute to gas and irritability in babies.

Other factors: Several factors such as hormone regulation,  constipation and carbohydrate intake can also contribute to gas.

The only way a baby can communicate his needs and discomfort is by crying. Decoding your baby’s cries will require observation skills. He could cry because of hunger, pain, some discomfort, or gas – and there are tell-tale signs for each. When he cries due to gain pain, his cries will be sharp, frantic, and intense. Some other signs of gassiness in babies are mentioned below.

1. Arching the back 2. Squirming and grunting 3. Clenching the fists and straining 4. Lifting the legs or pulling up the knees towards the chest 5. Getting red in the face while crying 6. Not eating or sleeping well

Watching your baby struggle with gas pain can break your heart. But there are several ways in which you can help your baby and put him out of misery. Here are some home remedial measures that you can try to help relieve your baby from a gas problem.

1. Maintain Proper Position While Feeding Your Baby – While breastfeeding, keep the baby’s head and neck at an angle so that they are higher than the tummy. This makes sure that the milk goes down to the stomach and the air comes up. The same applies while bottle feeding. Also, tip the bottle such that the air rises to the top and doesn’t accumulate near the nipple.

2. Try the Feed and Burp Rule – Mostly, babies experience gas pain because of swallowing air while feeding. To prevent excess air ingestion by the baby, take a break every 5 minutes or so while feeding your baby and gently tap his back to help him  burp . This will allow the milk to settle in his stomach and the gas to bubble up.

3. Try the Distraction Technique – As mentioned earlier, a baby may swallow air while crying. The more he cries, the more he will swallow air. And this could lead to a gas build-up. So if your baby is crying, take him in your arms and distract him so that he stops crying. Make funny faces or sounds, dance, sing, or give him a new toy – try any distraction technique to stop him from crying and you will see less of the gas problem in him.

4. Massage his Tummy – Tummy massages are a great way to reduce gas build-up in babies. Lay the baby on its back and gently rub the belly in a clockwise motion and then run the hand down the curve of his tummy. This procedure helps the gas move easily through the intestines.

5. Give Simethicone – Simethicone is a medicine that is administered for gas problems. It works by combining the smaller gas bubbles in the stomach into a larger one that can be passed out easily. This drug also comes with artificial flavours and colours but a paediatrician should be consulted before using it.

6. Try Swaddling – Your baby may not like it, but try it because it helps. Wrap your baby tightly in a soft blanket or cloth so that his movement of limbs is restricted. It can help ease the problem of gas too.

7. Consider Probiotics – Probiotics such as yoghurt contain plenty of helpful bacteria that are good for the intestinal flora. Paediatric probiotics, when given for a period of several weeks, can ease gas and stomach problems.

8. Massage With Mustard Oil – Giving your baby a  massage with warm mustard oil then a warm water bath to relieve the gas problem. Massaging with mustard oil will also help the expulsion of gas from the intestine and the warm water will trigger drowsiness, thus calming him down.

9. Try Asafoetida – Add about two mustard grain-sized bits of asafoetida to warm water and feed it to the baby if he has gas. When asafoetida is given in small amounts, it is known to provide relief from the gas problem.

Prevention is better than cure so if you don’t want to see your baby suffering from gas pain, be careful when you breastfeed or bottle-feed him. In your nursing phase, avoid eating certain foods that cause gas such as dry fish and prawns, spicy meat dishes, nuts, pulses, milk products, and vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, etc. If your little one has started on solids, make sure that the foods you give to him do not cause gas.

Make sure that your baby gets some tummy time daily. Make your baby lie down on his stomach for a few minutes. The gentle pressure on the tummy will help him pass the gas comfortably and also strengthen his back and neck muscles. Pat the baby on his back often during the day while you hold and play with him. This will help in consolidating gas in their system and passing it out easily.

If your baby cries for long periods of time and shows unusual behaviour coupled with fever, vomiting, prolonged  crying and poor feeding, it’s best that you consult the doctor.

As your baby won’t be able to communicate that he has gas pain, it is important that you take note of the signs. The gas build-up, while common, can be troublesome if not taken care of and could cause severe discomfort and pain for the baby. So be prepared for everything and take good care of your little one.

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9 Home Remedies To Treat Gas in Babies and Toddlers

Infants to adults, we have all suffered from gastric concerns.

Babies suffering from gas problems is a major concern since their digestive system is under-developed. They inhale a lot of air while breast/bottle feeding, due to excessive crying and also during teething.

This post gives you a detailed information about causes of gas problems and home remedies to treat gas in babies /toddlers.

How do you know if baby has gas problems?

Often babies cry uncontrollably when he is uncomfortable with the gas not being passed out of his body.

However here are the signs and symptoms by which you can understand your baby has gas problems.

• Keeps pulling the legs up crying
• Cries right after feeding
• Tummy gets hard
• Becomes extremely cranky and fussy

What causes gas or flatulence in babies and toddlers?

There are quite a few reasons for gas formation in babies and toddlers.

Babies eat through out the day and night. Hence their bowels produce a lot more gas compared to adults.

If you are breastfeeding and has taken some gas causing foods in your diet, it can cause gas as it passes on to the baby through breast milk.

Swallowing air while crying can also cause gas. Breastfed and bottle-fed babies can have gas problems as they suck in a lot of air along with milk making a build up of air in the intestine.

Gas problems are mainly caused by the substances called natural sugars like fructose, lactose, raffinose and sorbitol and/or soluble fiber. Since these substances are not digested in the stomach, they make their way down to the intestines.

The bacteria in the intestines does the needful resulting in the release of gas, bloating and flatulence.

Many fruits, vegetables, legumes, dairy products, carbonated drinks contain these substances hence these gas problems are unavoidable. We can only follow a few home remedies to treat gas in babies and toddlers.

What can I do to prevent formation of gas in baby?

• Make sure the head of the baby is in a higher position that his belly while feeding. This prevents the gas settling in the stomach.
• Bottle feed with a smaller hole. Large holes can pass out a lot of milk at a time resulting in baby sucking alot of air bubbles along with milk.
• Burp immediately after every feed.
• If your baby is bottle fed, he or she can suck in a lot of air bubbles. Always make sure to tilt the bottle in such a way that the whole nipple is filled with milk while feeding. Read to know the advantages and disadvantages of formula feeding .

9 Safe and Easy Home Remedies To Treat Gas in Babies, Toddlers and Kids:

I have listed down 9 home remedies which are easy and safe to treat gas in babies and kids.

#1. Burping after every feed:

Infants who are breastfed must be burped after every feed.

Don’t make them lie down once they have had their full.

Take your baby in upright position, pat her back and carry her for sometime. This avoids most of the gastric troubles in infants.

#2. Bicycling your baby’s legs:

Bicycling your baby’s legs few times a day keep the gas away. The rotations relieve them of gas and soothe pain, if any.

It is an easy method which can involve singing, talking and playing. This technique keeps them happy, active and playful too.

#3. Massaging with mustard oil:

Giving a gentle massage with warm mustard oil daily is a very healthy method.

Apart from calming the digestive system, it also strengthens the bones, brightens skin and  promises a sound sleep.

#4. Heat fermentation:

Dip a soft cotton towel in warm water and place it on the baby’s tummy after squeezing out excess water. This eases the gastric pain and baby feels at peace.

Please make sure that the towel is not too hot for the baby. Check for warmth by placing in your hand first.

#5. Ajwain ka pani or Carrom seed water:

Boil water with a handful of ajwain (carom seeds) and set aside.

Keep giving this water at frequent intervals. This remedy is best for babies of 6 months and above.

#6. Ginger:

Adding ginger to your baby’s food soothes and simplifies the digestion process.

Ginger reduces stomach gas and flatulence.

Please go slow with ginger and include just a pinch of it in your baby’s food, preferably after 8 months of age.

Cumin has Thymol, a compound which triggers the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes.

Boil 1/2 teaspoon of cumin seeds in a glass of water. Give this water at regular intervals to relieve gas .

Suitable for babies aged 6 month and above.

#8. Cardamom (Elaichi):

Elaichi is packed with minerals like potassium, calcium and magnesium and it also has iron and vitamin C. Since it reduces the air in the stomach, it speeds up the digestion process and also fights anemia.

Add a few grains of elaichi in baby food. Helps to fight gas in babies and adults as well.

#9. Asafoetida:

Take a pinch of asafoetida and dissolve it in warm water making a paste.

Apply this paste around the infant’s navel. This is an excellent gas reliever.

For babies over 1 year old, we can add a pinch of hing/asafoetida powder to their khichdi, dal etc.

For older kids, you can add a pinch of hing in their buttermilk/chaas.

You can also read about how asafoetida worked wonders for my daughter’s gas problems

As babies and kids grow-up they become less susceptible to gas problems and issues. This is completely natural and cannot be shunned away.

If this persists for a long time, gets extremely painful or is quite frequent, a doctor’s consultation is a must. He would prescribe anti flatulent medicines suited for babies and toddlers.

Hope this article on home remedies to treat gas in babies and toddlers was useful and informative.

Please share your home remedies with us and let us all know the tactics to deal gas, flatulence and acidity problems in babies.

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Mommy to a one year old baby girl, who juggles between work, home and not to forget the shuttling of cities. She loves reading, writing, dancing and hanging out. In short a fun-loving person who wants to see the God created world.

10 Comments

Very useful tips. Thanks

My 8th month baby suffering from stomach pain and vomiting yellow colour Please advise me what to do

Take ur baby to pediatrician dear mommy

thanks a lot …

Very useful article.. thanks

Wow it’s extremely informative… Keep posting so that we can have small n easy home tips for our little angels…

really informative and suful article thanks dear

Thank u Yamuna

hi anjana,a simple and well writen post with very useful tips

Thank u Jaya

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Gas Problems in Infants and Babies

Almost all babies experience discomfort due to gas, regardless of being breastfed or bottle-fed. It can be a painful experience and the degree of pain varies for every baby. Some gassy babies don’t feel much discomfort, while others can get extremely restless, constantly crying till they’ve passed gas. Gas problem in babies is not necessarily a medical condition. It is merely because the baby’s digestive system is developing and is therefore sensitive.

We have a handy list of things below that will help you identify signs that your baby might be gassy and how to relieve your little one’s pain. The thing to remember though is that this is perfectly normal and most babies feel gassy at some point or another, so don’t worry dear parents. Keep reading to know more.

Signs that my baby is gassy

Your little ones have limited means when it comes to communicating their distress to you, mom. And when they are in pain we understand it can leave you feeling perplexed and helpless. But not to worry, it’s perfectly normal for every baby to feel some discomfort from time to time. There are, however, a few symptoms that you can watch out for to recognise gas problems in infants. Crying is the only way babies, especially newborns, communicate. And if your baby is crying, even after being fed and diaper change , the possible reason could be that the baby has a gas problem. Apart from that watch out for symptoms such as restlessness, arching of the back, lifting of legs, a bulging belly, flatulence, and belching.

Difference between colic and gas

Colic is when babies, usually at four weeks, cry incessantly, for three hours or more in a day, for no apparent reason. This normally happens in the evenings. These colic bouts peak usually between six to eight weeks, and can last for several months. Gas does not cause colic , as is mostly believed. However, the crying during the colic episodes can lead to a gassy baby as they inhale air while they cry.

What exactly causes gas?

There are multiple reasons why babies get gassy. First and foremost, gas is an outcome during the digestion of the nutrients in breastmilk or formula milk. This gas then gets trapped in the intestines, causing a build-up of pressure. And since the digestive system of babies is still developing, it becomes difficult to cope with this pressure. Other factors that contribute or worsen this problem is when babies inhale air while feeding – either breastmilk or bottle – due to improper feeding posture or poor latch. Another reason why babies inhale too much air is when they cry, which is just about always since that’s their sole medium of communication, mostly.

Which is why digestion problems in babies in the form of gas is close to inevitable. The first hurdle is recognising that your baby has gas issues. Look out for the signs as mentioned above in the symptoms.

Once you’ve notices the symptoms in your little nincompoop, there are several home remedies for gas problems in babies that one can try:

Leg movement

For newborns, lay the baby flat on their back, and lift their legs with their knees bent. Now, move them mimicking a bicycling motion. This helps relieve trapped gas.

Upright position

Hold the baby in an upright position and patting their back gently for burps.

Face down cradle

This is one of the most efficient techniques, not just when the baby is gassy but even when they are cranky or fussy. Cradling the baby with face down, elevating the head a little with adequate support, and pacing gently soothes them.

Tummy massage

Gently massage baby’s tummy, and gauge their reaction to know whether to apply or reduce pressure. It usually helps in calming them down and relieving some gas but discontinue if baby seems irritable.

Allow your baby to spend some time on their tummy. This can be done only for babies who can support their heads. It promotes movement and strengthens upper body muscles. When they elevate their heads, it helps release some of the trapped gas.

Maintain a food log

Keeping a track of what your baby eats, number of times, and at what intervals, it will help you understand the baby’s diet and observe a pattern, if there is any. If you breastfeed your baby, take a closer look at what you eat. Certain foods like processed milk products or caffeine may make it difficult for your baby to digest breastmilk. If you feed formula milk, try changing the brand to see if it makes a difference.

There is no need to visit the doctor for minor gassy problems. However, if the problem persists and the baby is in severe pain that does not seem to go away, then it is always advisable to seek medical guidance. Most doctors prescribe drops that can be given to babies, ensure to always check dosage with your doctor and administer accordingly.

If baby finds no relief then the doctor may recommend certain tests to rule out any major. We understand parents may feel helpless watching their little ones restless and in pain. But know that this is a natural occurrence and will improve with time. As your baby’s digestive tract grows and matures, the gas problem too will disappear.

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Scary but Normal Baby Problems and How to Solve Them

Posted: November 14, 2023 | Last updated: November 14, 2023

For all the joy of having a new baby in the home, there are times when things seem amiss. This is especially true for first-time parents who might notice quirks about baby that seem terrifying to adults but are perfectly normal for a developing human.

Sometimes, it’s easy to be guided by instinct, such as with a crying baby. Most of the time they’re either hungry, tired or uncomfortable. There’s not much guesswork there, and the solutions are straightforward enough. But what about patches of skin that don’t look as plush and soft as the rest of baby’s body, or huge amounts of saliva dripping out of baby’s mouth all day, or sudden hair loss or flaky skin that makes baby look like a reptile? Are those things normal, or should parents be calling their pediatrician at all hours and making near daily trips to the ER? 

The short answer is many seemingly frightening things that baby experiences are actually normal and healthy. But sometimes they’re not. It’s easy to get spooked, so let’s give you some peace of mind by taking a look at common baby problems and their solutions.

The Problem: Hiccups

What it is:  Diaphragm contractions and rapid closing of vocal cords.

Cause:  Unknown. May be the result of eating too fast, becoming suddenly cold or moving around a lot right after feeding.

Prevention:  Feed  your baby  before they start crying in desperation, hold them upright after eating for 20 to 30 minutes, and avoid bouncing up and down or doing other heavy activities immediately after a feeding.

The Solution

Treatment:  It’s best to just let them run their course. The first few times they happen, it’s alarming for parents, but babies are so unaffected by hiccups that they can sleep through a bout. If you must stop them, try burping your baby, giving them a pacifier or feeding them gripe water, an herbal water solution that is supposed to help with intestinal discomfort.  

When to contact the doctor:  If hiccups still happen often after 12 months or if baby is extremely bothered by hiccups and they occur frequently.

The Problem: Cradle Cap

What it is:  Scaly patches of crusty or oily skin on the scalp.

Cause:  Unknown. May be the result of leftover hormones passed from mother to child before birth, which can cause excessive sebum oil production, or a yeast fungus that grows in sebum. Cradle cap is not contagious and isn’t caused by poor hygiene. 

Prevention:  Use a mild shampoo every few days.

Treatment:  Try daily washing with a mild shampoo or, only with a doctor’s consent, an anti-dandruff shampoo. Applying mineral oil 30 minutes before shampooing also helps loosen the scales, as does a soft-bristled toothbrush while washing. Or, since it’s not painful or itchy for baby, just let it pass, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. 

When to contact the doctor:  If you’ve tried these treatments with no success or the scales spread to baby’s face or other parts of the body.

For more baby advice, check out FamilyMinded.

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