As a parent, it’s common to be concerned when our baby experiences hiccups. While hiccups don’t typically harm babies, they can be bothersome and disrupt feeding or sleep. Fortunately, there are many ways to relieve hiccups in babies.

1. Burp your baby

Often hiccups occur when a baby swallows too much air while feeding. Burping after feeding can help your baby release the air, relieve hiccups, and prevent gas or discomfort.

2. Offer a pacifier

Sucking on a pacifier can help calm and soothe your baby, which may also help relieve hiccups. Pacifiers can also reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) when used during sleep.

3. Change feeding positions

Feeding your baby in an upright position can help prevent hiccups by encouraging your child to swallow less air.

If your baby tends to hiccup during feeding, experiment with different feeding positions such as holding your baby at a 45-degree angle or using a special feeding pillow.

4. Massage your baby’s back

Gently massaging your baby’s back while they are lying on their stomach can help soothe hiccups and encourage burping. Ensure that your baby’s head is tilted forward to prevent choking, and use a circular motion on your baby’s back.

5. Offer frequent small feedings

If your baby is prone to hiccups, try offering smaller, more frequent feedings. This can help reduce the amount of air swallowed during feeding, which can help prevent hiccups.

6. Use gripe water

Gripe water is a natural remedy that can help relieve hiccups. Gripe water contains herbs such as fennel, ginger, and chamomile, which can soothe your baby’s digestive system and calm hiccups.

However, it is important to only use gripe water that is specifically formulated for babies and always follow the recommended dosage.

7. Give your baby a warm bath

A warm and relaxing bath can help calm your baby and relieve hiccups. The warm water can also help your baby’s body relax and release any trapped air. Ensure the water temperature is not too hot, and always supervise your baby during bath time.

8. Use a warm compress

A warm compress applied to your baby’s belly can help calm hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm muscle. Soak a washcloth in warm water, wring out the excess water, and apply it to your baby’s belly.

Keep the compress in place for a few minutes, and repeat as needed.

9. Avoid overfeeding

Overfeeding can lead to hiccups and other digestive issues. Pay attention to your baby’s cues and stop feeding when they appear full. If your baby has trouble latching or nursing, seek advice from a lactation consultant or pediatrician.

10. Seek medical advice

While hiccups are usually harmless and resolve on their own, persistent hiccups can sometimes be a sign of an underlying medical condition such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), nervous system or metabolic disorders.

If your baby experiences frequent or severe hiccups, consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider for advice.

Conclusion

Hiccups are a common occurrence in babies, but they can be bothersome and disrupt feedings or sleep. Fortunately, there are many ways to relieve hiccups in babies, including burping, pacifiers, massage, gripe water, warm baths, compresses, and more.

By experimenting with different techniques and paying attention to your baby’s cues, you can help relieve hiccups and provide soothing relief for your child.