What’s causing my baby’s wind?
Wind is caused by swallowing air when feeding, crying or simply breathing. The air
fills your baby’s tummy, which can make them feel uncomfortable and quite full up
before they’ve had enough milk to drink.
Wind and feeding
Some babies are quite happy to suck away and complete their feed in one go and rarely
need burping, while other babies may require winding in between feeds. Breastfed
babies tend to have less of a problem because their feeds are smaller and they can
control the flow of milk more easily. They tend to be fed in a more upright position
too.
But even breastfed babies can get wind – there are no hard and fast rules! You might
notice your baby refuses to suckle any more and cries or looks a bit pained – especially
if you try to lay them down afterwards.
How do I wind my baby?
If your baby is feeding happily, leave them be. You can wind during natural breaks
in the feed, during a change-over of breast and at the end of their feed. Every
mom has their own favourite method that they find works best for their baby but
here are some suggestions:
• Place your baby over your shoulder with their bottom supported by your arm on
that side. As your baby is in an upright, stretched out posture, this a good ‘burping
position’. Pat or rub their back with your other hand.
• Sit your baby upright on your lap, encircling them with your arm. Allow your baby
to lean forward slightly, so that their tummy rests against your arm. This position
will gently compress their abdomen which may help to bring up the wind. Pat or rub
their back with your other hand.
• Place your baby face down on your lap. Hold them firmly with one hand and pat
or rub their back gently with the other.
At the end of your feeding session, cuddle your baby close and you may get a sleepy
burp in response!