Newborns have tiny stomachs and immature digestive systems, which means they often swallow air while feeding. If trapped gas isn’t released, it can cause fussiness, discomfort, and even spit-up.
Burping helps relieve gas buildup and keeps baby feeling comfortable. But many parents wonder:
🤔 How often should I burp my baby?
🤔 What’s the best burping technique?
🤔 What if my baby won’t burp?
This guide covers:
✔️ When and how often to burp your baby
✔️ The best burping positions
✔️ What to do if baby won’t burp
When & How Often to Burp Your Newborn
📌 Newborns should be burped frequently during feedings—especially in the early weeks.
📌 Burping Guidelines:
| Feeding Type | How Often to Burp |
|---|---|
| Breastfed Babies | After switching breasts & at the end of a feed |
| Bottle-Fed Babies | Every 1-2 ounces & at the end of a feed |
📌 Pro Tip: Some babies don’t need burping often, while others need it after every few sips. Watch for signs of trapped gas (squirming, fussing, arching back).
💡 Related Post: Newborn Feeding: How Often & How Much Should Your Baby Eat?
Best Burping Positions
Different babies respond to different positions. Try these three effective burping methods:
1. Over-the-Shoulder Burp (Classic Method)
👶 Best for: Babies who prefer upright positions.
✔️ Hold baby against your chest, head resting on your shoulder.
✔️ Support their back and gently pat or rub in circular motions.
2. Sitting on Lap Burp (Great for Reflux)
👶 Best for: Babies who spit up often.
✔️ Sit baby on your lap facing sideways.
✔️ Support chin and chest with one hand while patting their back.
3. Belly-Down Burp (Gas-Relief Method)
👶 Best for: Babies with stubborn gas.
✔️ Lay baby across your lap on their belly.
✔️ Support their head and rub or pat their back gently.
📌 Pro Tip: If one position isn’t working, switch it up! Sometimes a change in angle helps release trapped air.
💡 Related Post: Newborn Gas & Colic: Why It Happens & How to Help
What If My Baby Won’t Burp?
Not all babies burp easily—and that’s okay! Some don’t swallow much air, while others may just need a different approach.
📌 Try These Tricks:
✔️ Burp baby halfway through a feeding instead of waiting until the end.
✔️ Move baby gently in circular motions to help gas rise.
✔️ Lay baby on their back & do bicycle legs (great for lower gas discomfort).
✔️ Keep baby upright for 10-15 minutes after a feeding.
🚩 Call the Pediatrician If:
❌ Baby is constantly crying and seems uncomfortable after feeds.
❌ Baby spits up forcefully or vomits often.
❌ Baby’s belly looks bloated and hard.
💡 Related Post: Cluster Feeding Explained: What It Is & Why It’s Normal
Birthify’s Expert Support for New Parents
💛 Struggling with gas, spit-up, or a fussy baby? Birthify’s newborn specialists provide real-time feeding and digestion support so you can feel confident in your baby’s comfort.
👉 Join Birthify today and get expert-led newborn support! Sign up here