Newborn Gas Problems

All babies have gas; some babies simply have more than others. Some babies have an easier time passing gas, which may stem from a learned or innate ability. Gassiness in the newborn and many babies often results from multiple factors, not just one simple thing.

There are different ways that air can get into babies’ digestive systems. Gas is produced in the digestive tract from the moment baby has his or her first drink of breast milk or formula. Newborn gas is a natural byproduct of digesting lactose, proteins and other nutrients contained in breast milk or formula.

Some Pediatricians and lactation specialists assert that traces of gas-producing foods such as some vegetables and legumes can be passed from mother to baby. Some experts also warn against excessive acidity in the maternal diet. Citrus fruits and juices, strawberries and tomatoes are high in acidity and may irritate the infant. Dairy products in mother’s diet can also lead to “intolerances” in baby. The problem is usually linked to the milk protein found in milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, ice cream, etc. Soy and peanut intolerance in babies often accompanies dairy intolerance. When breastfeeding, a mother can test how these common culprits may be affecting her child by religiously eliminating all dairy, soy and peanut products from her own diet for two weeks. Reintroduction of soy first, then a cooked milk product (such as hard cheese or yogurt) should be done very slowly to monitor baby’s tolerances.

Air bubbles can also be taken through baby’s mouth and nose. This can be the result of the suction created during nursing. If your bottle-feeding make sure that the bottle’s nipple is the right size. If the nipple is too big, it will cause your baby to eat too fast. If it is too small, it will cause your baby to gulp air.

Another possible reason for infant gassiness is hyper-lactation syndrome. When a mother has an abundant milk supply, she may produce a large amount of foremilk. Foremilk is higher in water content, higher in lactose and usually delivered with greater force during letdown. In excess, foremilk can make baby’s stomach cramp, creating more fussiness. A baby that gulps the quickly flowing milk also tends to take in more air, thereby getting gassier. Because the baby may not be getting enough of the hind milk, he or she tends to want eat more often, which perpetuates the problem. The baby that suffers from hyper-lactation syndrome is characterized by higher that normal weight gain, increased gassiness and fussiness.

Over stimulation can also lead to increased gassiness. Just as many adults experience intestinal disturbances in stressful situations, so are babies affected by their environments. Sensitive infants that are bombarded with noise, lights, touch and multiple experiences will usually cause the baby to “shut down” in an attempt to reduce stimulation. This shut down response does not completely insulate baby from the effects of the stimulation. Babies that are easily overloaded often experience more sever gas, fussiness and difficulty sleeping later in the day or night. In general, the more activity (errands, visitors, T.V., phones, etc.) in baby’s day, the higher the chances of gassiness and fussiness in baby’s evening and night.

A certain amount of crying is normal in all infants, since it is their only means of verbal communication. Babies’ crying may indicate that they are hungry, lonely, warm, cold, uncomfortable or in need of a diaper change. Many babies go through periods of crying for no apparent reason as they simply get used to the new world. Crying in general causes babies to gulp air into the digestive systems. These air bubbles can get trapped in the stomach and/or passed on to the intestine. Gas pain can also be a direct result of air swallowed during crying.

Why does it cause pain and discomfort?

Normally, gas is not a problem and causes no pain or discomfort because it is quickly and easily pushed through the digestive system. However, babies are born with a very immature digestive systems. Most experts agree that for the first thirteen weeks of life outside the womb, the newborn digestive systems are literally just learning to function. Muscles that support digestion have not developed the proper rhythm for moving food efficiently through the digestive tract. Furthermore, newborns lack the bacterial flora that develops over time to aid in digestion.

Gas has buoyancy and gas pockets can become trapped in the upper and lower intestines. The gas acts like a cork, impending or halting the flow of gastric juices and build-up pressure causes painful bloating and swelling of the abdomen. Baby’s immature digestive system is unable to cope effectively. When gas pockets form in the stomach, this can cause the stomach to distend, but is also the main cause of hiccups.

What can I do for my baby’s gas?

Burping the baby will reduce the amount of air in the stomach, so that it does not pass on to the intestinal tract. Unfortunately, burping is not 100% effective at eliminating gas, since it has absolutely no effect on the gas created in the intestines during normal digestion. There are baby massage techniques which may prove effective in helping release gas. Simply applying light pressure on the tummy can soothe and help. You can also try carrying baby in the “football hold” face down on your forearm with baby’s legs straddling your elbow and baby’s chin resting in your hand. Again, gentle pressure placed on the little tummy can help soothe and release baby’s gas. I have used Simethicone (Mylicon drops) with some relief. I have also used warm water, which sometimes helps the gas pass through the intestine. I have used Gripe Water (without alcohol) which helps the gas and hiccups. Each baby is different and the gas may be in the stomach or in the intestine, which would be the deciding factor on what you might use.

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