Whether you bottle-feed or breastfeed, your baby will encounter gas. The Babycenter website notes that it is a natural process of the digestive system, something that even adults and children have to deal with. Although a baby's gas is not usually something to get overly concerned about, it can be disconcerting to see your baby in pain. Fortunately, there are many ways to help ease his gas discomfort.
Step 1
Hold your baby as much as possible, especially in the evening to encourage a more restful sleep. Parents website explains that the gentle jostling motion of walking can help dislodge gas bubbles.
Step 2
Nurse your baby on only one breast during each feeding. If baby gets too much foremilk, he can suffer from a condition called "lactose overload," resulting in digestion problems such as gas. The Babycenter website recommends alternating sides with each feeding or nursing twice on one breast before switching to the other.
Step 3
Apply a gentle pressure on baby's tummy with your hand. This can help soothe pain and release gas bubbles.
Step 4
Place baby on the floor for tummy time as much as possible. According to the Parents website, the abdominal pressure can help expel any built-up gas.
Step 5
Carry your baby in a football hold. The BabiesToday website suggests placing baby face down on your arm with her chin in the palm of your hand. Allow her legs to straddle your elbow as you pat her back to release gas bubbles.
Tips and Warnings
- The Babycenter website states that dairy products are often to blame for a baby's gas discomfort. If breastfeeding, try to eliminate foods such as yogurt, cheese, milk, ice cream and pudding from your own diet for about a week. If your baby does have a food sensitivity, his gas symptoms should improve within a couple of days. If you bottle-feed, burp your baby approximately every 5 minutes during a feeding to prevent build-up of gas. Although breastfed babies do not usually need to be burped, watch for evidence of discomfort such as fidgeting or squirming while feeding.
- The BabiesToday website warns that a doctor should be consulted if your baby's gas is chronic and no other remedies work. He may suggest an over-the-counter infant drop to ease pressure and break up gas bubbles. A few drops of these medications often work quickly to calm your baby down. Some products contain ingredients like peppermint and licorice.
