Babies usually don’t need to burp after a feed. They often bring up wind without help. But if you think your baby swallows a lot of air when feeding or has trouble getting rid of wind, you can try burping them.

Start by putting a cloth over your shoulder. Then put your baby over your shoulder and support them with your hand on the same side. When your baby is upright, gently rub their back with your other hand. Be ready to support your baby’s head if it falls backwards.

Your baby might vomit up some milk during burping. This is normal.

Sit your baby upright on your lap. Lean your baby forward and support their head and neck with your fingers. With your free hand, rub your baby’s back gently.

Place your baby face down on your lap or your forearm so they’re looking sideways, supported by your knee or hand. Rub your baby’s back gently with your other hand. Avoid this position if your baby brings up milk or vomits a lot.

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.

A few minutes is usually long enough for burping.

After burping, your baby will give you cues about what to do next. If your baby is comfortable, it might be time for play and activities with you.

If your baby is still upset after being burped, it might be because of something other than wind. Is your baby still hungry? Do they have a dirty nappy? Are they overtired? Are they 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.