How Long to Hold Baby Upright After Feeding
Babies often experience digestive discomfort after feeding, so it’s important that you help keep their little tummies comfortable. Holding them upright after feeding can help alleviate some of the discomfort, but you may be wondering just how long they should be held in this position.
The Benefits of Upright Positioning
Holding a baby upright after feeding is an effective way to calm and soothe a fussy baby. Keeping them upright helps to:
- Reduce air bubbles that can be swallowed during feeding
- Prevent spitting up or vomiting post-feeding
- Relieve gas pain and discomfort
- Strengthen the muscles that are used for swallowing and digestion
How Long to Hold Baby Upright After Feeding
It’s recommended that you keep your baby in an upright position for at least 15 to 30 minutes after eating. You can also lay your baby down or have them in a seated position, but be sure to not let them recline too much. An inclined position can make it easier for food and milk to come back up and irritate the throat, leading to further fussiness and discomfort.
Tips for Holding Baby Upright After Feeding
Here are some tips to help make your baby more comfortable and help keep his or her meal down:
- Recruit a helper: Use pillows to properly support your baby in an upright position. You can also enlist another person, like a parent or grandparent, to help you hold your baby upright.
- Allow for burping breaks: Burping after feeding is essential to relieve gases from within the digestive tract and help keep your little one comfortable.
- Try infant massage: Rubbing your baby in a circular motion can help relax and soothe them.
- Try skin-on-skin contact: Skin-to-skin contact can help to calm and relax your baby, which in turn can prevent fussiness and discomfort related to feeding.
- Offer a pacifier: Sucking on a pacifier can help with the digestion process and reduce any discomfort the baby might be feeling.
When it comes to feeding, your baby’s comfort should always be your top priority. Holding them upright after feeding is an easy and effective way to reduce their discomfort. So be sure to keep your baby upright for 15 to 30 minutes after their meal to help keep them happy and comfortable.