New-borns or infants are quite prone to reflux issues. This happens when they swallow too much of air and the food moves up from their stomach to their oesophagus, causing them to spit milk and food after every feed. Though reflux is not a serious problem, it is important to follow the right techniques to make your baby burp, so that he releases the trapped air and feels light and comfortable.
The process of trying different positions to help the baby burp after every feed is known as winding. When you learn about the different baby feeding techniques, it is also mandatory for you to learn the art of winding. These are very simple techniques that you can follow right at home, very easily. Your baby will not face any discomfort during this process. Though the winding positions, which we are going to speak about in this article, have been followed for years, it is still recommended to check with your paediatrician about the right techniques and frequency of winding per day.
Positions that work well during winding
- Hold the baby in a flat, upright position so that his stomach is stretched well. Now, gently rub his back, while balancing his neck and head. This will provide immense comfort to the baby as your gentle rubs will help your baby to release the gas that has been trapped inside his stomach.
- Make the baby sit on your lap in an upright position and then rub his back gently as you make him lean forward slightly. Ensure that you hold the baby’s head tightly while you rub his back. This will make him burp easily.
- Make yourself seated in a sofa in an upright position first, before making your baby lie on his tummy across your knees. You could then gently rub his back while you hold his neck to give him enough balance to lie down.
In all of these positions, your baby will be made to burp. While he burps, he may spit some milk and food. Hence, it is highly recommended that you have a clean cloth near you to clean him up when he spits. The process when he throws up milk when you try to wind him is known as posseting.
Though winding is very important when your baby has reflux issues, you have to remember that spitting is a common problem among babies up to 18 months of age. You don’t have to panic at all as long as your baby is content after every feed and is gaining weight properly.
What should you note?
As a new mother, it is perfectly natural for you to feel curious while trying to wind the baby. However, you should understand that patience is very important in this process. Your baby will burp; have no worries, but he will take some time to do so, especially when you are trying the positions for the first time.
As soon as he lets out a burp, your baby may demand more milk or food because his stomach is empty. It is recommended that you wait for at least 30 minutes after your baby has burped before you feed him the next meal.
