Baby Gas Relief Guide

Is your baby's tummy bloated and fussy? Gas might be the cause. Here are effective ways to help your baby feel better.

Signs of Gas in Babies

• Belly is bloated and feels hard
• Pulling legs toward tummy
• Face turns red while crying
• Frequent passing of gas
• Fussiness after feeding
• Worse in the evening/night
• Arching back in discomfort

What Causes Gas?

• Swallowing air: During feeding
• Inadequate burping: Not burping after feeds
• Immature digestive system: Newborns have weak digestion
• Bottle nipple: Large holes allow more air intake
• Overfeeding: Eating too much at once
• Mom's diet (if breastfeeding): Dairy, beans, broccoli, etc.
• Formula sensitivity: Formula may not suit baby

Gas Relief Methods

1. Tummy Massage

Do this 30 minutes to 1 hour after feeding with warm hands.

• Clockwise circles: Gently massage around the belly button
• "I Love You" massage:
  • I: Stroke down the left side
  • L: Stroke across and down (right to left, then down)
  • U: Stroke in a U-shape (right side up, across, left side down)
• Massage gently for 5-10 minutes
• Use baby oil for smoother movements

2. Bicycle Legs

• Lay baby on their back
• Hold both legs and alternately push toward the belly
• Move slowly like pedaling a bicycle
• Repeat 10-15 times

3. Knees to Chest

• Hold both knees together and gently push toward belly
• Hold for 5-10 seconds
• Release and repeat
• May help baby pass gas

4. Tummy Time

• Place baby on their belly while awake
• Natural pressure helps release gas
• Do several times a day, 3-5 minutes each
• Never put baby to sleep on their tummy

Proper Burping Techniques

Three Burping Positions

• Over the shoulder: Hold baby upright with head resting on your shoulder, pat back
• Sitting on lap: Sit baby on your lap, support chin with one hand, pat back
• Face down on lap: Lay baby face down across your lap, pat back

Burping Tips

• Stroke back upward from bottom to top
• Pat gently, not too hard
• Try for about 5-10 minutes
• If no burp, take a break and try again
• Burp during feeds too, not just after

Why Burping Matters

• Prevents gas from moving to intestines
• Reduces spit-up/reflux
• Less discomfort after feeding

Prevention Tips

During Feeding

• Feed slowly (fast feeding = more air swallowed)
• Tilt bottle so nipple is full of milk, not air
• Consider anti-colic bottles
• Burp during feeds, not just after
• If breastfeeding, empty one breast fully before switching

After Feeding

• Hold baby upright for 10-15 minutes
• Don't lay down immediately
• Avoid vigorous movements

Formula Feeding Tips

• Check if nipple hole size is appropriate
• If formula doesn't suit baby, consult doctor about changing
• Consider hydrolyzed formula (easier to digest)

Helpful Products

• Anti-colic bottles: Reduce air intake
• Gas drops (simethicone): Effectiveness varies
• Probiotics: Support gut health (consult doctor)
• Warm compress: Warm towel on tummy to relax muscles

When to See a Doctor

These symptoms may indicate something other than gas:

• Fever (100.4°F / 38°C or higher)
• Severe vomiting (projectile)
• Blood in stool
• Poor weight gain
• No bowel movement for 24+ hours
• Belly is very hard and baby cries when touched
• Baby seems lethargic or weak

Summary

Baby gas is very common. It usually improves naturally by 3-4 months as the digestive system matures.

Keep up with tummy massage and burping, and don't worry too much. Time will help.