What is reflux? (Gastro-oesophageal reflux)
Some regurgitation (“spilling up”) is expected in babies (see bringing back milk section)
The regurgitation is usually caused by stomach contents travelling back up into baby’s oesophagus (gullet) the tube that connects the stomach to the mouth.
Reflux happens because the sphincter muscle (that acts like a valve) that holds the top of the stomach closed is not very strong in babies.
During the first year of a baby’s life this valve mechanism will gradually get stronger and the reflux will stop. About 50% of healthy babies under one year of age have this type of regurgitation. It does create more laundry and can be worrying when you first experience it. If your baby seems otherwise well then it is not a cause for concern.
How do I know if my baby has reflux and what can I do?
If your baby has reflux, you might notice that they regurgitate a little milk after feeding or have hiccups. If some of the milk they have regurgitated has gone back down again ‘the wrong way’, they might also cough a bit too.
Don’t worry, as long as your baby is otherwise well and healthy, they’ll be fine. You just need to keep a cloth or tissue handy for catching their ‘spilling’ milk.
In some cases, you might want to speak to your health care professional:
- If the reflux is excessive and frequent
- If your baby is not gaining weight
- If your baby screams excessively during or after feeding
- If your baby’s back arches during or after feeding
- If coughing becomes a regular occurrence
For further information visit:
Reflux Infant Support Association (Australia)