Learn how to identify signs of aerophagia in babies to make breastfeeding a more comfortable experience for your child.
Did you know that aerophagia, or the act of swallowing air, is a common issue among newborns? This condition often occurs during breastfeeding and can lead to discomfort and fuss for the baby. Recognising early signs of aerophagia can help you effectively manage your baby’s pain and create a more pleasant feeding experience. New mothers need to understand aerophagia, including its causes, symptoms, and basic management tips.
What is the most critical time for breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is important for your baby’s health. It helps boost their immunity and supports healthy growth and development. However, breastfeeding can sometimes be challenging, according to the UK’s National Health Institute. If your baby is gassy, fussy, or colicky after feeding, they may be swallowing too much air during the process. “This is known as aerophagia, and it can lead to bloating, belching, irritability, and a refusal to eat”, Parul Mudit Mishra, Consultant Lactation Expert, Motherhood Hospitals, tells Health Shots. A cranky baby can worry parents, but there’s no need to panic.
What is aerophagia?
Aerophagia is when a person swallows air, causing it to enter the stomach and intestines. For breastfeeding infants, this usually happens for a few reasons, like having a weak latch, feeding too quickly, or crying, as per Stanford Children’s Health. Paying close attention while breastfeeding can help reduce this problem.
How do I stop my breastfed baby from swallowing air?
Knowing what causes aerophagia is important for preventing it. Here are some common reasons:
- Poor latch during breastfeeding: An improper latch allows air to enter along with milk, preventing the baby from breastfeeding effectively.
- Flat or inverted nipples: “These can hinder the baby’s ability to create a proper seal, leading to air swallowing”, explains the Lactation Expert.
- Fast milk let-down or overactive milk flow: If milk flows too quickly, babies may swallow air while gulping.
- Feeding while crying or being too hungry: A frantic feeding attempt can lead to excessive gulping.
- Improper feeding position: Poor nipple placement can exacerbate the situation, as per BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth.
- Airway issues: Conditions affecting the airway can increase the risk of aerophagia.
- Tongue tie or lip tie: These conditions prevent the baby from latching properly and can result in air being swallowed.
What are the symptoms of aerophagia in infants?
Parents should watch for signs that might show aerophagia. Look out for the following symptoms:
- Frequent burping or hiccups are one of the most common signs.
- Gassy stomach, bloating, or excessive flatulence: “An uncomfortable belly can indicate excessive intake of air”, says the expert.
- Crying or fussiness after breastfeeding: If your baby is irritable after feeding, they may be experiencing discomfort due to swallowed air.
- Arching of the back or drawing knees to the chest: These are signs of abdominal discomfort.
- Spitting up or mild vomiting: Frequent spitting up could be linked to excess air.
- Refusing to feed or pulling away during feeds: A cranky baby that refuses to latch could indicate they feel uncomfortable.
How to treat aerophagia in babies?
As a parent, it’s important to take steps to address aerophagia. Here are some tips that can help:
- Ensure a deep latch: The baby’s mouth should cover most of the areola to help create a better seal and reduce air intake.
- Experiment with feeding positions: “Positions such as the koala hold or laid-back feeding can be more favourable for the baby”, shares the Lactation Expert.
- Burp your baby during and after each feed: This can help release trapped air.
- Let the baby finish one breast before switching: This helps to avoid overfeeding and minimise air swallowing as per Harvard Health.
- Express some milk before nursing, especially if the let-down is too fast: This can control the flow and mitigate gulping.
- Keep your baby calm before feeding: Avoid feeding when they are overly hungry or crying, as this can lead to frantic feeding patterns.
- Consult a lactation expert: If latching proves difficult, seeking help can make a significant difference, according to the UK’s National Health Institute.
Disclaimer: At Health Shots, we are committed to providing accurate, reliable, and authentic information to support your health and well-being. However, the content on this website is intended solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised advice regarding your specific medical condition or concerns.
