Why do babies get hiccups so often?

It can be startling to hear your newborn hiccup again and again, but rest assured: hiccups are perfectly normal in babies, even several times a day. In fact, hiccups often start in the womb. They happen when the diaphragm (the muscle between the chest and belly) spasms and the vocal cords snap shut. For most babies, hiccups are harmless and stop on their own. Let’s look at why they happen so frequently and what you can do.

Common causes of frequent hiccups in babies

Immature nervous system – A baby’s brain and nerves are still developing. The diaphragm can easily get overstimulated by a full tummy, temperature change, or excitement, triggering hiccups. This is normal and improves with age.

Feeding – Swallowing air during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can distend the stomach and irritate the diaphragm. Overfeeding or feeding too quickly may also contribute. Burping during and after feeds can help.

Temperature changes – A sudden chill or warm bath might trigger hiccups as the body adjusts.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) – Some hiccups are linked to reflux, where stomach contents come up. If your baby has hiccups along with spitting up, arching back, or fussiness, mention it to your pediatrician.

Tips to prevent and soothe hiccups

Burp your baby well. Pause during feeds to burp, especially if your baby is gulping or seems gassy. For bottle-fed babies, try paced feeding with a slow-flow nipple to reduce air intake.

Keep feedings calm and upright. Hold your baby at a 45-degree angle or more during feeds. After feeding, keep baby upright for 20-30 minutes to let gravity help.

Offer a pacifier. Sucking can relax the diaphragm and sometimes stop hiccups.

Avoid overfeeding. Follow your baby’s hunger cues. A too-full tummy is a common hiccup trigger.

Try gentle movement or a warm bath. Sometimes a change of position or a warm bath can distract and settle a hiccup spell.

Wait it out. Most hiccup episodes last 5-10 minutes and resolve without intervention. Your baby is not distressed by them.

When to check with your pediatrician

Hiccups are usually nothing to worry about. But contact your pediatrician if:
– Hiccups last more than 20-30 minutes, especially if they happen every time after feeding.
– Hiccups interfere with feeding or sleeping.
– Your baby seems in pain, arches back, or vomits forcefully with hiccups.
– Hiccups persist past the first year.

These could be signs of GERD or other issues that need medical advice.

What NOT to do

Never try to scare, startle, or forcibly hold your baby’s breath to stop hiccups. These old remedies are dangerous. Also, don’t give your baby any gripe water or herbal remedies without talking to your pediatrician first. Your baby’s body will naturally resolve hiccups.

The bottom line

Frequent hiccups are a normal part of infancy due to a developing nervous system and feeding habits. With gentle burping, upright positioning, and patience, you can help reduce them. Trust your instincts: if something feels off or hiccups seem excessive, your pediatrician is your best resource.

Key Takeaway

Baby hiccups are normal and usually harmless; focus on burping and upright feeding, but always consult your pediatrician if hiccups seem excessive or troubling.