Babies swallow air when they eat or drink.  Breastfed babies seem to swallow less air than formula-fed babies. Young infants typically start to fuss or squirm when they need to be burped. This often occurs every few minutes or after every few ounces of milk. Some babies need to be burped more frequently than others.

Why do babies burp?

All babies, and all people for that matter, swallow air when they drink or eat.  Most of this air stays in the GI tract until it is either belched or passed from below. Burping allows a baby to expel air from the stomach such that it does not have to pass through the intestines. Air anywhere in the GI tract can cause crampy discomfort.

How often should I burp my baby?

This varies from infant in infant.  Some babies need burping every few minutes or after one ounce of milk.  Most babies can be burped after consuming two or three ounces of milk. Breastfed babies typically swallow less air than formula-fed babies.

How do I burp my baby?

With trial and error you'll figure out the best method for your child.  Here are some suggestions:

Hold your baby with her front resting against your shoulder.  Her eyes should be looking over your shoulder.  Support her weight with the arm on the same side as the shoulder and pat her back gently with your other hand.  You can also rub her back gently such that her body sways a little.

Set your baby on your knees facing any direction while you support her back and head. Or lay your baby flat on her stomach on your knees. You can pat her back, rub her back, or bounce your knees gently.  Movements should be slow and gentle.

What if I can't get my baby to burp?

Don't worry about it.  Your baby may not have air in her stomach.  Resume feeding and attempt to burp her again in a few minutes.

Do infant gas drops help with burping?

Possibly.  Simethicone, the active ingredient in gas drops, simply breaks up bubbles.  The air is still present and must be burped out or passed down below.

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