How to Burp a Baby

Summary

This video, presented by maternity nurse Gladys from NYU Langone Medical Center, addresses common concerns new parents have about burping their newborns. It explains two burping techniques: over-the-shoulder and on-the-lap. The video emphasizes the importance of releasing trapped gas during feeding to help babies feel more comfortable. It also covers how to adjust the techniques based on what works best for your baby, along with tips on frequency, handling spit-ups, and fostering bonding through this process. The video aims to boost parents' confidence through practice and experience.

Takeaways

• 👶 Burping helps release gas that babies may swallow during feeding, making them feel better and stimulating them.
• 🤱 Two burping techniques are demonstrated: over-the-shoulder and on-the-lap positions.
• 🍼 The over-the-shoulder technique involves holding the baby upright against your chest with a cloth over your shoulder and gently patting their back.
• 🦵 The on-the-lap technique has the baby sitting on your lap while you support their chest and head with one hand and pat their back with the other.
• 🪡 A burping cloth should be used to catch any spit-up, especially during the over-the-shoulder technique.
• ⏱ Burp your baby for about a minute before continuing the feeding, even if they don't burp every time.
• 🤔 It's common for breastfed babies to burp less than bottle-fed babies because they swallow less air.
• 💡 If your baby seems fussy or cries during feeding, it could indicate they need to be burped.
• 👍 Practice makes perfect, and with time, parents will become more confident and attuned to what works best for their baby.
• ❤️ Burping is also a bonding activity, allowing parents to interact and build confidence in newborn care.

Q & A

Why is it important to burp a baby after feeding?

Burping helps release gas that the baby may have taken in during feeding, making the baby feel better and more comfortable.

What are the two main burping techniques demonstrated in the video?

The two main techniques are the over-the-shoulder method and the on-the-lap method.

How should you position the baby for the over-the-shoulder burping technique?

Hold the baby on your chest with the baby facing you, supporting the baby's bottom with one arm and patting the back with your dominant hand.

What should you do if the baby doesn't burp after a few minutes?

It is perfectly normal if the baby doesn’t burp every time. You can continue feeding and try again later.

How can you burp a baby using the on-the-lap technique?

Sit the baby on your lap, supporting their jaw with your thumb and forefinger, and pat their back gently with your dominant hand.

Is it normal for babies to spit up while being burped?

Yes, it's normal for babies to spit up during burping. You can use a burp cloth to clean up and continue the process.

When is the best time to burp a baby during feeding?

For breastfed babies, burp after feeding on each breast. For bottle-fed babies, burp halfway through and again after the feeding.

Do breastfed babies need to be burped as often as bottle-fed babies?

No, breastfed babies tend to swallow less air, so they may need to be burped less frequently than bottle-fed babies.

What signs might indicate that a baby needs to be burped during feeding?

If a baby starts fussing or crying during feeding, it may indicate they need to be burped.

How does burping your baby contribute to bonding?

Burping provides hands-on contact as you hold, touch, and talk to your baby, which enhances the bonding experience.