My baby has wind

Your newborn baby’s digestive system is still immature and getting used to drinking milk. This could result in air bubbles getting trapped in their stomach, which they’re unable to expel by themselves. Find out what you can do to relieve this trapped wind so that they’re comfortable.

Winding is a necessary part of feeding your baby, because they often take in air with their milk and aren’t able to burp properly. Lots of mums we talk to are often concerned about not being able to wind their baby correctly so we’ve put some tips together to help you. If you have any further questions or just need a bit more advice, please make sure to contact your doctor.

What’s causing my baby’s wind?

Wind is caused by swallowing air when feeding, crying or simply breathing. The air fills your baby’s tummy, which can make them feel uncomfortable and quite full up before they’ve had enough milk to drink.

Wind and feeding

Some babies are quite happy to suck away and complete their feed in one go and rarely need burping, while other babies may require winding in between feeds. Breastfed babies tend to have less of a problem because their feeds are smaller and they can control the flow of milk more easily. They tend to be fed in a more upright position too.

But even breastfed babies can get wind – there are no hard and fast rules! You might notice your baby refuses to suckle anymore and cries or looks a bit pained – especially if you try to lay them down afterwards.

How do I wind my baby?

If your baby is feeding happily, leave them be. You can wind them if they turn their head away for a natural break in the feed, during a change-over of breast and at the end of their feed. Every mum has their own favourite method that they find works best for their baby but here are some suggestions: