Preventing hiccups in newborns

Hiccups are repeated contractions of the diaphragm, the breathing muscle beneath the lungs. In newborns, a full stomach, swallowed air, or fast feeding can trigger this reflex. Hiccups often settle on their own and do not mean your baby is unwell.

Offer feeds when your baby shows early hunger cues rather than waiting until crying, which can lead to faster swallowing. Hold your baby in a comfortable, supported position and check that the latch or bottle teat allows a steady flow. Pause during the feed for a burp, then keep your baby upright against your chest for a short while. Avoid startling, holding the breath, giving water, or using home remedies. If spit-up, back arching, or feeding discomfort is frequent, discuss possible reflux with a clinician; see Acid Reflux and Acid Reflux Medication for related information.

Contact a clinician if hiccups repeatedly interrupt feeds or sleep, occur with frequent vomiting, poor feeding, fewer wet nappies, breathing difficulty, unusual sleepiness, or poor weight gain. Seek urgent help for blue or grey lips, severe breathing trouble, or a baby who is difficult to wake.

Ask whether feeding pace, latch, formula preparation, or reflux symptoms could be contributing. You can also ask which signs show that your baby is getting enough milk and whether a feeding review would help.