Burping Basics: Why, When, and How to Help Your Baby

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Feeding a newborn seems simple at first—milk in, tummy full. But what comes after is just as important. Burping helps release the air your baby swallows while feeding. Without it, that trapped air can lead to discomfort, fussiness, or even spit-up.

Knowing how to burp your baby and when to do it is part of keeping your baby fed, gentle, and comfortable. It may take practice, but over time, burping becomes one of those quiet, steady rituals that make a big difference in how your baby feels.

Why Burping Helps More Than You Think

Newborns have immature digestive systems. When they swallow milk, they often take it in the air too, especially during bottle feeding or if they’re crying before latching. That air builds up in the stomach and can press against the milk they just swallowed.

This pressure can make your baby squirm, fuss, or stop feeding early. Some babies show no signs of discomfort. Others arch their backs, clench their fists, or wake up shortly after feeding due to trapped gas.

Burping is a way to release that extra air before it becomes a problem. It also gives your baby a short break during feeding, which can help prevent overfeeding or spit-up.

When to Burp: Timing Matters

There is no single rule that fits every baby. Some need to burp more often than others. But in the early weeks, a good routine is to burp your baby:

Halfway through a feeding (especially with a bottle)

At the end of the feeding

Anytime your baby pulls away, squirms, or seems uncomfortable while nursing.

If your baby falls asleep before burping, gently lift them upright and give them a few minutes. Some babies will burp in their sleep with very little effort.

Over time, you’ll learn your baby’s patterns. Some need burping after every ounce. Others may not need it as often. What matters is staying tuned in to how they feed and respond.

How to Burp: Find the Position That Works

There are several effective burping positions. You can try each one and see what feels most comfortable for both of you:

Over the Shoulder

Hold your baby upright against your chest, with their head resting on your shoulder. Support their bottom with one hand and gently pat or rub their back with the other. Keep a cloth handy in case of spit-up.

Sitting on Your Lap

Sit your baby on your lap, facing sideways. Support their chest and head with one hand, using the palm to hold their chin (not throat). Use your other hand to pat or rub their back. This position is especially useful after bottle feeding.

Lying Face Down on Your Lap

Lay your baby tummy-down across your thighs, with their head slightly higher than their chest. Support the head gently and pat their back. This position offers gentle pressure on the stomach, which can help release air more easily.

Always move slowly and gently. Some babies burp right away. Others take a few minutes. If nothing happens after several tries and your baby seems content, it’s okay to stop and try again later.

What If Burping Doesn’t Seem to Help?

Not every baby needs to burp after every feeding. If your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and not showing signs of discomfort, it may not be necessary every time. But if you notice gassiness, spitting up, or fussiness during or after meals, more frequent burping might help.

Try adjusting feeding positions or feeding more slowly. If you’re bottle feeding, check for air bubbles in the nipple or switch to a slower-flow nipple to reduce swallowed air.

If your baby seems uncomfortable no matter what you try, speak with your pediatrician. Sometimes, persistent gas or discomfort may point to reflux or sensitivity to something in the milk.

Burping Is a Simple Way to Offer Relief

These early months are filled with small routines that support your baby’s comfort. Burping is one of them. It’s a quiet act of care that helps your baby feel lighter, calmer, and ready for rest or play.

You don’t have to get it right every time. What matters most is being responsive, gentle, and willing to learn what works best for your little one.