Is it normal for a newborn to hiccup after being full?

Oct 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Xie Zixing

Introduction

Whether it is normal for a newborn to hiccup after being full depends on the specific circumstances. Hiccups after feeding may result from feeding too quickly or vigorously, causing the baby to swallow air. It could also be due to intense crying before feeding, leading to ingestion of large amounts of air, which stimulates the diaphragm and causes spasms—a physiological and normally benign phenomenon. However, hiccups can also occur if the infant has indigestion or underlying conditions affecting the chest or diaphragm.

It is normal for newborns to hiccup after feeding, but this should be evaluated according to the baby's individual condition.

Hiccups in newborns after feeding may be normal. When a baby feeds too quickly or eagerly, air may be swallowed along with milk. When enough air accumulates in the stomach, hiccups can occur. Additionally, if a newborn cries intensely before feeding, they may swallow large amounts of air, which enters the digestive tract and stimulates the diaphragm, causing spasms that result in hiccups. However, this is usually a physiological and normal phenomenon. On the other hand, hiccups can also be caused by underlying medical conditions, such as indigestion. Moreover, disorders affecting the chest or diaphragm may also lead to hiccups.

If hiccups occur simply due to overfeeding, gently holding the newborn upright after feeding—with their head resting on the adult's shoulder—and patting their back until the gas is burped out usually helps. If hiccups are caused by an illness, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital.

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What should I do if a newborn baby hiccups after drinking milk?

It is common for newborns to experience hiccups after feeding. To reduce this symptom, it's important to hold the baby upright and burp them promptly after each feeding. During breastfeeding, ensure the nipple and areola are fully placed into the newborn's mouth. For formula feeding, make sure the bottle nipple is completely filled with milk to prevent mixing of milk and air. Additionally, probiotics can be used to regulate intestinal flora, or medications such as simethicone can be administered to help expel gas.

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What causes a newborn to have persistent hiccups after feeding?

It is normal for babies to burp after feeding, as newborns’ digestive systems are not yet fully developed. The pylorus (the opening between the stomach and the small intestine) is relatively narrow, and the lower esophageal sphincter is relatively relaxed. Additionally, infants consume only small amounts per feeding, making burping common after breastfeeding. Furthermore, burping may also result from diaphragmatic spasm. Thus, burping after feeding in infants may be attributable to diaphragmatic spasm.