Welcoming a newborn into your life is a beautiful and exciting experience but it also brings many new challenges and questions, such as when your baby starts to hiccup. Newborn hiccups can seem concerning to new parents, but they are quite common and usually harmless. Understanding the causes of newborn hiccups and knowing how to soothe them can help ease your worries and make your parenting journey more enjoyable.
What Causes Newborn Hiccups?
Newborn hiccups are a natural reflex and are quite common in infants. They usually result from contractions of the diaphragm, which can happen for several reasons:
Immature Diaphragm: In newborns, the diaphragm is still developing. This muscle helps with breathing and its immaturity can lead to hiccups as it occasionally spasms.
Feeding: Hiccups often occur during or after feeding. This can happen when babies swallow air while feeding or when they overfeed.
Temperature Changes: Sometimes, sudden changes in temperature can cause hiccups in newborns. Keep an eye on your baby’s comfort, ensuring they’re not too hot or too cold.
Reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux in infants can sometimes trigger hiccups, as the stomach contents might irritate the diaphragm.
How to Soothe Newborn Hiccups
While newborn hiccups are rarely a cause for concern, if you feel the need to soothe them, there are gentle methods you can try:
Pause for a Burp: If your baby is hiccuping during a feed, gently pause and burp them to release trapped air. This might help prevent any further hiccups.
Change Positions: Try changing your baby’s position. Hold them upright and gently pat their back. This might help the diaphragm relax and reduce hiccups.
Offer a Pacifier: Sometimes, allowing your baby to suck on a pacifier can help soothe the hiccups by relaxing the diaphragm.
Ensure Proper Latching: If you’re breastfeeding, make sure your baby is latching correctly. This can minimise air swallowing during feeding, which might help prevent hiccups.
Warm Bath: A warm bath can help soothe your newborn, potentially relaxing the diaphragm and reducing hiccups.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While hiccups in newborns are usually normal, if they occur too often or seem to cause discomfort, it may be wise to reach out to a paediatrician. In some cases, hiccups can indicate an underlying issue, such as reflux, that may require medical attention.
Delight in the Newborn Experience
Parenting is full of surprises and newborn hiccups are just one of them. As you embark on this journey, cherish the small moments, like picking the perfect name for your little girl. Whether you prefer classic names or something more unique, the love you give your child will shape their world.
Recognising that hiccups are a common part of infancy can ease your worries and allow you to focus on enjoying these precious early days. With gentle methods to calm hiccups and a watchful eye on your newborn’s health, you can embrace the parenting journey with confidence and joy. As you cherish these moments, whether you find yourself pondering over girl names or baby milestones, remember that each hiccup is a part of the beautiful journey of parenthood.
