Spitting up: what's normal and when to call
Spitting up and reflux in babies: why it's common, when it eases, what helps, the warning signs
Reviewed against 2 sources, listed below
When to call
- Get help urgently for: green or yellow vomit, or blood in the vomit or poo; forceful (projectile) vomiting; a swollen or tender tummy; can't keep fluids down or signs of dehydration; refusing feeds; crying that won't stop and seems very distressed; a high temperature.
- See the doctor if it isn't improving, starts after 6 months, is still going after 1 year, or the baby isn't gaining weight.
At a glance
- Spitting up (reflux) is very common: the muscle at the top of the stomach is still weak. It usually starts before 8 weeks and gets better by about 1 year. Most babies with it need no treatment.
- What helps: holding the baby upright during and for a while after feeds, burping regularly during feeds, not overfeeding, and help with breastfeeding position or bottle technique.
- Sleep stays flat on the back; don't raise the head of the crib.
In Livia
Logged feeds and weights on the growth chart show whether a spitty baby is still feeding and gaining, which is what the pediatrician looks at.
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Education from the sources listed, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child, call your pediatrician; in an emergency, call 911.