Burping newborns: the basics
Newborns might have wind if they swallow air when crying or feeding. They get rid of wind by burping or passing wind from their bottoms.
Put a cloth over your shoulder. Put baby over your shoulder and support baby with your hand on the same side. When baby is upright, gently rub baby’s back with your other hand.
Your baby might vomit up some milk during burping. This is normal.
More burping positions to try
Sit baby upright on your lap. Lean baby forward with baby’s tummy against your hand. The pressure of your hand on baby’s tummy might bring up wind. Rub baby’s back gently with your other hand.
Place baby face down on your lap or your forearm so baby is looking sideways and is supported by your knee or hand. Rub baby’s back gently with your other hand.
Some babies might be unsettled during and after a feed until they’ve been burped. Burping your baby part way through a feed might help. Use the position that works best for your baby.
After burping: understanding your baby’s cues
After burping, your baby will give you baby cues about what to do next. If baby is comfortable, it might be time for play and activities with you.
If your baby is still upset after being burped, the problem might be something other than wind. Is your baby still hungry? Does baby have a dirty nappy? Is baby unwell?
If your newborn is often unsettled after feeding and burping, or you’re worried for any other reason, see your GP or child and family health nurse.