If the baby experiences discomfort while feeding, tends to be cranky, pulls away or moves uncomfortably, it may be a sign for you to burp your baby right then. However, if the baby seems content and sleeps peacefully during or after the feed, it is okay to let them be. In such a case, one should not force the baby to burp.If a baby suffers from colic symptoms or other spells of prolonged crying, it is natural for him/her to swallow more air while crying. Correct burping techniques go a long way in overcoming this.

How To Burp a Baby?

Parents are often faced with the dilemma of how to burp a newborn baby. Medical experts and paediatricians suggest that there are three different ways to burp a baby. Mothers or guardians may choose the one that suits them and their baby to decide as to which is the best way to burp a baby.

1. Chest or Shoulder Method:

In this method, one may hold the baby in one arm in a manner such that the baby’s chin rests on the shoulder. With the other, free arm, you should pat or rub the baby’s back gently and wait for the baby to burp. This position is very comfortable for the baby, and hence, it will be of no discomfort to him/her.

You may also hold your baby higher such that his/her belly rests gently on your shoulder. In such a situation, one must make sure that the baby is breathing normally. One must take care of the baby’s head and neck positions to prevent the baby from any harm.

The parent may place a cloth over their shoulder/back to prevent their clothes from being soiled by baby spit-up.

See More: Baby Massaging Techniques

2. Baby Sitting on Lap Method:

The baby must be placed on the parent’s lap, facing in the same direction as the parent. One hand must be supporting the baby’s chest, chin and jaw (gently). Slowly and gently, make the baby lean forward and rub/pat his/her back with the other hand. In this case, a bib over the baby’s chest will prevent contamination by spit-up.