How to Feed a Baby with Reflux

Learn gentle feeding techniques and positioning tips to help reduce reflux symptoms in your baby.

  1. Feed smaller amounts more frequently. Instead of large feedings, offer smaller portions every 2-3 hours. This reduces the volume in your baby's stomach at any given time, making reflux less likely. For breastfeeding, try switching sides more often or limiting time on each side initially. For bottle feeding, offer 1-2 ounces less than usual but add an extra feeding during the day to maintain total nutrition.
  2. Keep your baby upright during and after feeding. Hold your baby in an upright or semi-upright position while feeding, rather than lying flat. After feeding, keep them upright for 20-30 minutes if possible. You can hold them against your chest, use a baby carrier, or let them sit in a bouncy seat. Gravity helps keep milk down and reduces the chance of spit-up.
  3. Burp frequently and gently. Burp your baby every 1-2 ounces during bottle feeding, or when switching sides during breastfeeding. Use gentle patting or rubbing motions on their back rather than vigorous patting. Try different burping positions to see what works best - over your shoulder, sitting upright on your lap, or lying face-down across your forearm.
  4. Adjust your feeding pace. Feed slowly and calmly. For bottle feeding, use a slow-flow nipple and tilt the bottle so the nipple is only partially filled with milk, allowing your baby to control the flow. Take breaks during feeding to let your baby rest and digest. If breastfeeding, try different positions like the laid-back or side-lying position to slow milk flow.
  5. Watch for feeding cues and stop signs. Pay attention to when your baby shows they're full - turning their head away, pushing the bottle away, or becoming fussy. Don't encourage them to finish every last drop. Overfeeding can worsen reflux symptoms. Also watch for signs that feeding is making reflux worse, like arching their back, crying during feeds, or refusing to eat.
  6. Create a calm feeding environment. Keep feeding times quiet and peaceful. Avoid bouncing, jostling, or playing right after meals. Dim the lights slightly and minimize distractions. A calm baby is less likely to gulp air while eating, which can contribute to reflux. If your baby seems stressed or overstimulated, take a break before continuing the feeding.