How to Burp a Newborn

Published on 2023-09-01 by y2mango

One of the key things that new parents need to learn is how to burp their newborns in the feeding routing. Burping helps to release the air that the baby has swallowed during feeding and can remove discomfort and prevent spitting up.

Burping by placing your  baby on your shoulder with their chin resting on your shoulder.

Burping by placing your baby on your shoulder with their chin resting on your shoulder. Credit: Chris Anderson.

Signs that your baby may need to be burped include fussiness, hiccups, arching their back, drawing legs into the tummy, and clenching the fists.

Here are a few different positions many parents use:

  1. Place your baby on your shoulder with their chin resting on your shoulder. As you support the baby with one hand, gently pat your baby's back with the other hand.
  2. Hold your baby in an upright position. Use one hand to support their head and neck, and rub or pat your baby's back with your other hand.
  3. Lay your baby on their belly across your lap. Make sure to support your baby's head, and gently pat your baby's back.

If your baby seems uncomfortable while you burp them, try adjusting the position. You may need to experiment to find what works best for your baby.

When to burp your baby depends. Some babies need to be burped during the feeding while others can be burped after.

Remember, every baby is different, and what works for one may not work for another. So don't be discouraged if you don't get it right the first time.

P.S. want more parenting tips? Look here.