When do you stop burping a baby? New parents may often wonder about it. Burping is a part of your baby’s feeding regimen to assist your baby to release the excess gas from the tummy that they tend to ingest while feeding (1). It is believed to assist your child to avoid spitting up and relieving gastrointestinal discomfort, such as colic, caused by trapped gas. Read on to learn when it is appropriate to stop burping a baby, indications to watch for to make an informed decision, and other alternative ways of help.
When Can You Stop Burping The Baby?
Most babies usually do not need burping by the age of four to six months (2).However, every baby is different, and so is the rate at which their gastrointestinal system matures. As a result, some babies may require frequent burping, while some may not require burping at all. Since there is variation in the need for burping babies, a set age to stop burping doesn’t fit all babies. Hence, identifying signs indicating your baby may be ready to go off burping is necessary.
Signs You Can Stop Burping The Baby
Here are some cues that may indicate that your baby might not need burping. Most experts recommend burping babies to reduce spit-ups and prevent gastrointestinal gas buildup that causes issues, such as colic. However, some studies have concluded that burping does not significantly lower colic events and spit-ups (9). Therefore, consult your pediatrician to know whether the baby needs burping or not. If the doctor says yes, follow their directions to burp the baby.
What To Do If Burping Doesn’t Help?
Try the following alternatives if your baby continues to show signs of trapped air, such as squirming, despite burping. In some cases, burping a baby doesn’t work because the problem isn’t trapped gas, but a gastrointestinal issue, such as acid reflux or GERD. If your baby is burping excessively or the burping is accompanied by other problems, such as excessive spit-up or projectile vomiting, consult your pediatrician right away. The doctor will note your little one’s symptoms and do an evaluation to determine the underlying cause.
