Mother holding infant in kitchen

Tips for Easing Baby's Acid Reflux

Terressa Patterson RN BSN MS IBCLC

In partnership with Dr. Brown's Company

Acid reflux is common in infants, especially during the first few months as their digestive systems are still maturing. Thankfully, there are several strategies that can help reduce your baby's discomfort:

  • Feed in an upright position and keep your baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes after feeding to help gravity keep milk down.
  • Nurse in a more reclined, "laid-back" position so your baby can better control the milk flow and reduce swallowing air.
  • Offer smaller, more frequent feeds to avoid overfilling the stomach.
  • If bottle-feeding, choose a slow-flow nipple and pace the feed to mimic the rhythm of breastfeeding. Using an anti-colic bottle, such as Dr. Brown's Anti-Colic Bottle, can help minimize air intake, which may reduce gas, discomfort, and reflux symptoms. These bottles are designed with a venting system that helps maintain a vacuum-free flow, reducing the amount of air your baby swallows. Many parents report improvements in spit-up, fussiness, and gassiness when switching to this type of bottle.

Fast milk flow or oversupply can make reflux worse. Nursing from one breast per feeding may help manage milk flow and prevent overfeeding.

If your baby shows signs like arching, coughing, frequent spit-up, refusing to latch, or being unusually fussy during or after feeds, it may be helpful to evaluate for oral restrictions such as a tongue tie or lip tie. These can lead to a disorganized suck and swallow pattern, increasing air intake and reflux-like symptoms.

Most babies outgrow reflux by 6 to 12 months of age, particularly as they begin sitting up on their own and starting solid foods. If symptoms are severe, interfere with feeding or growth, or seem to be getting worse, it's important to speak with your pediatric provider.

DISCLAIMER: THIS CONTENT DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE
The information contained is for informational purposes only and is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely solely on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider.

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