What is the best way to burp a newborn?
Burping a newborn is an important part of their daily routine. It helps to release air bubbles that accumulate in their stomachs, which can cause discomfort and fussiness. Newborns are especially prone to gas and spitting up, so it’s important to know how to burp them correctly.
There are a few different ways to burp a newborn, but the most important thing is to be gentle and patient. It may take a few attempts before your baby releases any air bubbles, and some babies are more sensitive to burping than others. Here are some tips on the best way to burp a newborn.
1. Positioning
The most important thing to remember when burping a newborn is to make sure they are in a comfortable position. If you’re sitting down, you can hold your baby against your chest with their head resting on your shoulder and their stomach against your arm. If you’re standing up, you can hold them against your chest with one hand supporting their head and the other supporting their bottom.
2. Patting
Once your baby is in a comfortable position, start by gently patting their back with your free hand. Use light, rhythmic pats and make sure to avoid any sharp or sudden movements. You can also try rubbing your baby’s back in a circular motion or using gentle, massage-like strokes.
3. Burping Cloths
It’s a good idea to have a burp cloth or two handy when burping a newborn. This will help to protect your clothes from any spit-up or mess that might occur during the burping process. You can also use the cloth to wipe your baby’s face after burping.
4. Burping Techniques
There are a few different burping techniques you can use when burping a newborn. You can try jiggling your baby’s body while patting their back, or you can try the “burping hold” where you hold your baby upright and press their chin down into their chest. You can also try gently bouncing your baby on your lap or gently jiggling them while holding them against your shoulder.
5. Timing
When it comes to timing, it’s best to burp your baby after each feed. This will help to release any air bubbles that may have accumulated in their stomach during feeding. However, if your baby doesn’t seem to need a burp after a feed, you can wait a few minutes before trying again.
6. Signs of Success
When burping a newborn, you should look out for signs of success. This may include your baby releasing air bubbles, or a burp coming out of their mouth. If your baby doesn’t seem to be burping, try again in a few minutes.
Burping a newborn can be a tricky process, but with a little practice and patience, you’ll soon get the hang of it. Just remember to be gentle and use the right techniques, and you’ll be able to help your baby release any air bubbles that may be causing them discomfort.