Soothing Your Little One: A Guide to Easing Tummy Gas in Babies

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a joyous occasion, but it often comes with the challenge of navigating common discomforts, especially when it comes to tummy gas or wind.

Challenges of newborns and Gas

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a joyous occasion, but it often comes with the challenge of navigating common discomforts, especially when it comes to tummy gas or wind. Understanding why newborns and young babies may struggle with trapped gas is crucial for parents seeking ways to bring relief to their little ones.

Challenges Faced by Newborns and Young Babies

Developing Digestive System: Newborns and young babies have digestive systems that are still developing. This can result in challenges with effectively processing and expelling gas.
Overstimulation: The world can be an overwhelming place for a new baby, and overstimulation can contribute to tension in their tiny tummies. This stress can manifest as trapped gas.
Struggling to Digest Milk: The transition from liquid nourishment in the womb to milk, whether from breastfeeding or formula, can be a learning curve for babies. Some struggle to digest milk efficiently, leading to the accumulation of gas.
Learning to Pass Stool: Babies are still mastering the art of passing stool effectively. This learning process can sometimes result in discomfort due to trapped gas.
Immobility: Limited mobility in the early months can contribute to gas getting trapped in the digestive system. Unlike older children or adults who can move around to facilitate gas release, babies are relatively immobile.
Feeding Predominantly by suckling: Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, the act of suckling can introduce more air into the baby's digestive system compared to chewing, increasing the risk of trapped gas.

Tips to Assist Parents in Easing Tummy Gas:

Correct Feeding Positions: For breastfeeding, ensure a correct latch to minimize air intake. Consult a lactation consultant if needed.
If bottle-feeding, use a teat with an appropriate flow rate, ensuring that the baby isn't swallowing air along with the milk.
Hold the baby in a slightly upright position during feeds to aid digestion.
Calm Feeding Environment: Create a serene feeding environment, minimising noise and distractions. A calm atmosphere can help the baby relax during feeds.
Post-Feeding Positions: Hold your baby in an upright position for 15-30 minutes after each feeding. This can encourage the release of trapped gas.
Gentle rocking or patting on the back may also aid in bringing up gas.
Baby Massage: A soothing tummy massage can help relieve gas. Use gentle, circular motions on the baby's abdomen, following the natural direction of the digestive tract.
Consulting with a Doctor: If you suspect that the baby's discomfort is related to milk, whether breast or formula, consult with a pediatrician. They can provide guidance on potential dietary adjustments.
Use of Gas-Relief Products: Telament Drops Gripe Water from Purity is a product containing natural ingredients like chamomile and fennel known for their calming properties. This gentle formula may help soothe little tummies. Always use gas-relief products under the guidance of a healthcare practitioner, ensuring they are alcohol and sugar-free.