Newborn hiccups are occur when the baby’s diaphragm contracts; causing vocal cord to close. When this happens the hiccup sound is formed.As a young parent; I used to be greatly bothered whenever my newborn got hiccups. Even up until now I must admit , it still does disturb me whenever she gets hiccups. However, research says that; that babies are typically not affected by hiccups. But , rather very beneficial to them, as they are a contributor to proper development.
Are hiccups bad for newborns? ; newborn hiccups
In as much as hiccups seem to disturb you as the parent, it is a different case with the baby herself. A new study published in Clinical Neurophysiology; found that hiccups play an important role in a baby’s brain development. Furthermore, the baby will begin to realize and get accustomed to how his or her body functions. And that too hiccups helps the baby’s body to function properly thus; when he or hiccups waves are sent out to the brain. Because, the brain has received the signal. Your baby will now learn how to control his or her breathing pattern.
How to get rid of newborn hiccups
Firstly, when your baby gets hiccups during breastfeeding or formula feed. You need to take a mini break from feeding ; and try to burp your baby. However, you should always try to feed you baby when they are calm, relaxed and before they get extremely hungry. When done right, this should reduce ; the chances of hiccups occurring during feeding. In an aim to help get rid of the hiccups.
Burp your baby by rubbing them gently; and patting them on the back. Avoid hitting or slapping the area with too much force , you do not want to inflict pain on the baby. Burping your baby is very helpful as it helps to get rid of the excess gas that may be causing the hiccups.
Secondly, when your baby gets hiccups give them a pacifier to suckle. As this will help relax your baby’s diaphragm and may help stop the hiccups.
Thirdly, do consider a trial of gripe water to help ease the hiccups. Then finally , if you are strong enough you can let the baby hiccup up until they go away naturally.
When do hiccups occur?Newborn hiccups
What causes newborn hiccups?.
Hiccups are most likely to occur just after a feed ,at any time or when your baby gets excited. However, newborn baby hiccups usually last from one minute up to about an hour. In addition, hiccups can diminish in intensity and frequency as the baby grows older. So you need not worry about them a lot.
Why do baby hiccups last so long?.
New born baby hiccups tend to last longer because, their system is still trying to learn how to untangle these patterns. Hence, hiccupping will tend to take longer than it takes in older babies or in children.
Should i give water to newborn baby with hiccups?
When your newborn baby is hiccupping please; do not give them water.
NB: Call the Doctor if;
Hiccups are not going and are now causing your baby pain. Your baby’s hiccupping is accompanied by vomiting after feedings. The baby’s hiccups seem to interfere with their breathing in any way. You realize that your baby is turning blue while hiccupping.
