Newborn hiccups are common, especially in babies under 12 months. Some little ones might even get them every day.
Interestingly, a study by the University College London (UCL)* suggests that hiccups could actually support your baby’s brain and breathing development. It’s like nature’s way of helping them grow — something they may start experiencing even before birth.
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, one thing is clear: hiccups in babies are generally nothing to worry about.
Still, if they seem to be bothering your baby (or you), there are a few simple things you can try. Let’s explore some gentle ways to ease those tiny hiccups.
Why Do Newborns Get Hiccups?
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm — a large muscle located just below the rib cage — experiences small spasms. This muscle helps with breathing by moving up and down, and when it spasms, it causes a sudden closure of the vocal cords, which creates that familiar “hic!” sound.
While hiccups often occur in babies without any clear cause, certain feeding habits can sometimes trigger these diaphragm spasms. These may include:
- Overfeeding
- Eating too quickly
- Swallowing too much air during feeding
These behaviours can make your baby’s tummy expand and press against the diaphragm, which may lead to those adorable (but sometimes persistent) hiccups.
Most of the time, hiccups don’t bother babies at all. But if they happen frequently, they could hint at an underlying health condition like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This condition occurs when partially digested food and stomach acid flow back up into the oesophagus. As that mixture passes the diaphragm, it can cause irritation and trigger more hiccups.
Watch for other signs of GERD, such as:
- Frequent coughing
- Spitting up
- Crying during or after feeds
- Persistent arching of the back
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s good to check in with your doctor. They can help figure out what’s going on and find the best way to keep your baby comfortable.
READ: Why you shouldn’t let anyone to kiss your new-born
How to Stop Newborn Hiccups?
Here are some tips for what to do when a baby has hiccups:
-
Let Hiccups Run Their Course
Babies hiccup often, and it's usually nothing to worry about. While hiccups might seem concerning to adults, most babies sleep right through them, and their breathing isn’t affected.
In most cases, hiccups go away on their own within 5-10 minutes. So, unless your baby seems uncomfortable or upset, let them pass naturally.
That said, if the hiccups last longer than 10 minutes or appear to be bothering your baby, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor.
-
Burp During Feeding
You might’ve heard about newborn hiccups after feeding — and it’s actually quite common.
When your baby swallows air during a feeding, it can build up in their tummy, pressing against the diaphragm and triggering hiccups. Burping your baby regularly, especially during feedings, can help release that trapped air and prevent hiccups from starting.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends burping bottle-fed babies every 2 to 3 ounces, and breastfed babies when switching between breasts.
Hiccup Tip: Softly rub or pat your baby’s back during hiccups. Avoid using excessive force or slapping in this area.
-
Massage or Rub Your Baby’s Back
To help release any excess air, try gently massaging your baby’s back in a circular motion. You can also softly rock them back and forth while rubbing their back — this can relax the diaphragm and calm the spasms that cause hiccups.
-
Offer a Pacifier
Hiccups can pop up anytime — not just during and after feeding. If your baby starts hiccuping out of the blue, offering a pacifier may help. The sucking motion can relax the diaphragm and stop the hiccups.
- Try Gripe Water
Gripe water is a mix of water and herbs like ginger, fennel, chamomile, and cinnamon. It’s been used traditionally to soothe colic and other tummy troubles.
Some parents find it helps with hiccups, especially those caused by stomach discomfort. While there’s no strong scientific evidence to support this, gripe water is generally considered low-risk, so you may try it (just be sure to follow the dosage instructions or check with your doctor).
READ: 5 Important Tips for Handling a Newborn
What Not to Do When Your Baby Has Hiccups
When you search for “how to stop newborn hiccups” online, you might come across a lot of suggestions and home remedies. However, it’s important to remember that many of these ideas lack scientific backing and can even be harmful.
Some examples of what to avoid include:
- Making someone jump while holding your baby
- Startling your baby
- Pulling your baby’s tongue
- Having your baby drink water while upside down
These methods can cause distress or injury to your baby and are unlikely to stop the hiccups. Instead of trying unproven remedies, it’s best to consult your baby’s doctor. They can provide evidence-based advice and rule out any underlying health issues that might be causing the hiccups.
READ: Newborn Care Importance
How to Prevent Newborn Baby Hiccups?
Completely preventing newborn hiccups can be tricky, as the exact causes are still unclear. However, there are a few strategies you can try to reduce hiccup episodes and help with your baby’s digestion:
- Ensure your baby is calm during feeding. Avoid waiting until they’re hungry and upset, as this can sometimes trigger hiccups.
- Instead of large meals, try feeding your baby smaller amounts more often.
- After feeding, opt for gentle activities and avoid bouncing or high-energy play.
- Keep your baby upright for 20 to 30 minutes following each meal. This can help with digestion and reduce hiccups.
- Adjust the bottle position to eliminate any air near the teat.
- Confirm that the baby’s mouth is properly latched over the entire nipple to avoid swallowing air.
When is the Time to Consult a Doctor?
Hiccups are common in babies, both in and out of the womb. However, excessive hiccuping, especially when accompanied by distress or agitation, might indicate an underlying medical issue that requires a doctor’s attention.
Seek immediate medical help if:
- Your baby is struggling to breathe or feed.
- Their lips turn blue (cyanosis), which may signal low oxygen levels.
- Hiccups are disrupting their sleep.
- Frequent hiccups continue past your baby’s first birthday.
- Hiccups last for more than two hours.
While most newborn hiccups are harmless, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor if you’re concerned. They can provide peace of mind and ensure your little one’s health and well-being.
Take Away
Newborn hiccups are a normal and frequent part of early development, especially during the first year. They’re often linked to feeding and are usually nothing to worry about.
Using proper feeding techniques can help minimise hiccups in babies, and a few gentle home remedies may provide relief. Additionally, it’s important to understand that there’s no permanent cure for newborn hiccups — they’re simply a natural part of growing up.
As always, if you have any concerns about your baby’s health, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. It’s always best to check in and get the reassurance you need.
