Why Babies Hiccups: Effective Ways To Stop It
Becoming a parent brings with it a multitude of questions and sometimes worries. One of the common curiosities of new moms and dads is related to baby hiccups. Why do they hiccup and, above all, how can we help calm this spontaneous reflex?
Motor Development and Baby Hiccups
Hiccups in babies are a very common phenomenon and in most cases, completely harmless. It is produced by involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, a muscle located between the chest and abdomen. Although it may seem bothersome to us adults, babies don't seem to be as affected and often hiccups without being bothered.
In the first weeks of life, hiccups may be more frequent due to the immaturity of the digestive system. Hiccups can also be related to how the baby feeds. For example, quickly swallowing air during breastfeeding or bottle feeding can trigger this reflex.
Language Development and Communication with the Baby
Even in the moments when the baby hiccups, it is important to communicate with him and assure him of our comfort. Talking to your baby will help you bond and ease any discomfort hiccups may cause.
By explaining what is going on and talking to him calmly, you will be able to get through these moments more easily. And remember, mother's language is always the most comforting to a baby.
Methods to Stop Hiccups
There are a few techniques you can try to shorten the duration of hiccups:
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Change baby's position - Place him upright or change him from side to side.
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Stroking the back - A light stroke on the baby's back can help relax the diaphragm.
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Make sure your baby burps - After each feeding, keep him upright to help him burp, thus releasing the swallowed air.
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Give her a pacifier - Sucking can also help soothe the diaphragm.
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Avoid feeding too quickly - Breastfeed or bottle gently to prevent swallowing air.
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Check and adjust the feeding technique or the bottle used - Make sure the baby has a good grip on the breast or bottle to reduce the amount of air swallowed.
Myths About Hiccup
Curiosity also brings with it many myths about hiccups. One of them would be that hiccups would indicate rapid growth of the baby. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Hiccups are simply a reflex and should not alarm us. So it is important to discern between useful tips and baseless myths.
When to Consult the Doctor
Although hiccups are mostly harmless, there are situations in which it is advisable to consult a doctor. If you notice that hiccups are associated with other symptoms such as breathing difficulties, frequent regurgitation or pronounced discomfort of the baby, it is recommended to seek the advice of a specialist. Also, if the hiccups persist for long periods of time, it is good to talk to the pediatrician.
Conclusion
Although the hiccups of babies may seem alarming to parents, it is good to know that this is a normal phenomenon in their development. Having some effective methods to stop hiccups in our arsenal and being able to distinguish myths from useful tips, we can get through these moments more easily. And remember, a pediatrician is always a consultation away for your questions or concerns. The most important thing is to stay calm and give your baby all the support and love he needs to grow up healthy and happy.
