Is your baby bringing up milk? That is caused by reflux, and no mother wants that. It makes your baby uncomfortable and fussy. Furthermore, you'd worry that they are not getting the nutrition that they need. In worse cases, reflux even leads to weight loss. So, as a mother, you'd want to learn what you can do to overcome this challenge. That's what this article is for. Here, you will learn about the best breastfeeding position for reflux.
What Is Reflux?
Acid reflux, commonly shortened to just reflux, is a process where stomach acid moves back up into the esophagus. It happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which acts like a gate, fails to close properly. As a result, the stomach's content goes back up. It leads to regurgitation and spitting up.
Since a baby's body is still developing, reflux is a common issue. It causes them to bring milk up. That is concerning, especially because they need the nutrients from breast milk in order to grow strong.
What Triggers Reflux in Breastfed Babies?
Your baby may be taking air in while breastfeeding, and that can trigger reflux. Babies who are not able to latch effectively are more susceptible to this. So, do what you can to get a good breastfeeding latch. But please note that babies can also take in air when crying, so reflux can be triggered even if they are able to latch effectively.
There are also other things that trigger reflux while breastfeeding. The list includes:
- A tongue tie.
- An imbalance in gut bacteria.
- An allergy.
- Asthma.
- A housemate who smokes.
- A slumped position.
- Tight clothing.
- The mother's diet.
- Overactive letdown reflex.
How Could Breastfeeding Lead to Acid Reflux
Breastfeeding could lead to acid reflux depending on the position and the mother's diet.
What you eat affects your breast milk, and the effect may be what's triggering acid reflux while breastfeeding. That said, avoid coffee and energy drinks that contain a lot of caffeine, as well as alcohol while breastfeeding. Likewise, avoid spicy food and food with artificial colors and preservatives. If you suspect your baby is allergic to something, consult a doctor and avoid that once confirmed.
You should also think about your breastfeeding position. Avoid putting your baby in a horizontal position, as it makes it easier for the stomach's contents to go back to the esophagus. So keep them upright while breastfeeding and even 30 minutes after the session.
Important: Please don't use sleep positioners or wedges, as it can increase the risks of sudden infant death syndrome.
What Are The Possible Reflux Symptoms of Your Baby?
Knowing when to take action is key to overcoming any challenge. If you think your baby is suffering from acid reflux, watch out for these reflux symptoms:
Vomiting and Regurgitation
Acid reflux brings the content of the stomach, in a baby's case – milk – back up. It will cause regurgitation or even vomiting.
Arching Their Back
During reflux, things are happening in your baby's gut. The reactions can cause them discomfort and may make them arch their back.
Irritability
Your baby may become irritable or fussy during or after breastfeeding. They may even become agitated when you are offering them your breast.
Difficulty Sleeping
The discomfort that reflux causes may make it difficult for your baby to fall asleep. It may also wake them up while sleeping. Thus, if your baby struggles to stay asleep for a decent amount of time, you can consider it a sign of reflux.
Weight Loss
Because reflux makes your baby bring up milk or vomit, it does not give them time to absorb the nutrients from the milk. Weight loss is an expected effect of this. On the same note, it makes your baby not gain weight even with frequent feeding sessions.
What Are the Best Breastfeeding Positions for Babies with Reflux?
The best breastfeeding positions for babies with reflux are the ones where they are upright. The most common and most recommended one is the koala position, but the laid-back position is also great. Find more information about both positions below.
Koala Position
In the koala breastfeeding position, your baby will be sitting on your thigh or your hip. Their spine and head will be upright as they feed. To make them as vertical as possible, support their head or neck. With that, you can reduce the pressure on your baby's stomach. Effectively, it reduces the chances of regurgitation.
While this position is great, the koala pose for breastfeeding can be difficult to achieve. That is especially true for newborns, but it becomes easier once your baby learns how to sit.
Laid Back Position
Laid back position aims to keep your baby upright without making it uncomfortable for you. In this position, you will lean back on a sofa or bed. However, you will not lay flat; you should be able to look into your baby's eyes when you place them in front of you. You can use pillows to support your back, neck, and shoulders.
Once your baby is on your front, gently guide them to your breast. Transition to the koala hold breastfeeding position once your baby is able to sit.
What Are The Foods to Avoid When Breastfeeding a Baby with Acid Reflux?
The food you ingest affects the taste and composition of your milk. That said, while you are not feeding them to your baby directly, they still have an effect. Some of these foods trigger or worsen acid reflux. Thus, you must avoid them for the sake of your baby's health.
Here is a list of foods to avoid when breastfeeding a baby with reflux:
- Spicy Food - Spicy food has the same effect on babies as they have on adults. They can cause heartburn and acid reflux.
- Tomato - Tomato is very acidic, so it is not a good food choice when dealing with acid reflux.
- Certain Fruits and Fruit Juices - Fruits are healthy, but if they're acidic, avoid them to prevent acid reflux. That said, avoid citrus fruits and even apples.
- Seafood with High Mercury Levels - High levels of mercury can find their way to your breast milk, and it is not healthy for babies.
- Alcohol - While it's not entirely forbidden to drink alcohol, it is best not to drink before breastfeeding your baby.
- Caffeine - Like alcohol, you can still enjoy a cup of coffee. However, limit your intake, as caffeine can trigger reflux.
How to Deal with Your Baby’s Reflux
You can minimize the effects of acid reflux on your baby by taking measures to avoid triggering it. For example, you should avoid acidic food and other foods and beverages that affect your baby's stomach. Try nursing positions for reflux, like the koala hold or the laid-back position.
Keeping your baby upright after feeding also helps. However the recommended duration is up to 30 minutes. That would be tiring for your arms. Moreover, it will disable you from doing a lot of other tasks. With that said, you should try the Momcozy baby carrier. You wear it, and it will allow you to carry your baby – in an upright position – hands-free! It is very convenient.
When To See a Doctor for Your Baby’s Reflux
A doctor's opinion is always valuable. However, should you really come to the clinic? Sometimes, the trip is not worth it because there are actually no problems at all. That said, you should know when to and when not to see a doctor for your baby's reflux.
You Don't Need To See A Doctor
You don't need to see a doctor if your baby has simple reflux. In this case, they bring up milk. However, they are still happy and are gaining weight. Simple reflux is not harmful to your baby, and it usually goes away as your baby grows.
You Need To See A Doctor
If you have tried all of our suggestions, and your baby's reflux is not easing up, consult a doctor. Likewise, seek medical advice if your baby got reflux only after they were 6 months old.
As mentioned above, you need not worry if your baby is gaining weight, so if they don't, get your baby checked.
FAQs About Breastfeeding Positions for Babies with Reflux
Here are some questions regarding breastfeeding positions for babies with reflux.
Is Side-Lying Breastfeeding OK for Reflux?
Yes, side-lying breastfeeding is OK for babies with reflux. But your baby should lie on their left side. Some studies suggest that it helps reduce pressure in the abdomen and prevent the backward flow of stomach contents.
What Is The Best Position to Nurse To Prevent Spit Up?
The best nursing positions to prevent spit-up are the same as the positions that are best for babies with reflux. Again, these positions are the side-lying and the koala nursing position.
Can a Fast Letdown Cause Reflux?
Yes, fast or forceful letdown (also known as overactive letdown syndrome) can trigger reflux-like symptoms. It can make your baby colicky or gassy. They may also experience hiccups.
Conclusion
All mothers want the best for their babies. So, if something makes your baby uncomfortable, it affects you, too. Unfortunately, problems are inevitable. You will face several challenges during your breastfeeding journey. One of the problems that may arise is your baby having a reflux. Naturally, you want to minimize its effect on your little one. Fortunately, there are many ways to do that.
You should try the best breastfeeding position for reflux, which keeps your baby upright. It reduces the risks of their stomach's content going back up. On top of that, you should reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake and be mindful of what you eat.
Remember, if the case is worsening, you should consult a doctor.
