Gas and fussiness

All babies swallow some air while they feed, and gas is a normal part of the first months. Most of what helps comes down to less air going in and more chances for it to come out. Babies vary, so try one change at a time.

Burping

• Burp during feeds as well as after them.
• On a bottle, burp after every 2 to 3 oz (60 to 90 ml). When nursing, burp at the side switch.
• The pause and the change of position also slow down gulping.

Less air in

• Hold your baby upright during feeds.
• Keep your baby upright for 10 to 15 minutes after a feed, or at least 20 minutes for a baby who spits up a lot.
• A slower bottle flow means less gulping. Vented, angled or collapsible bottles are made to cut swallowed air, and finding the right bottle and nipple is mostly trial and error.
• For powdered formula, letting a freshly mixed bottle settle leaves fewer bubbles.

Helping gas out

• Bicycle legs: lay your baby on their back and move their legs in a pedaling motion.
• Tummy time: gentle pressure on the belly can help gas move along. Only while your baby is awake and watched, and not right after a feed.
• Gentle motion and sound: rocking over your shoulder, a warm bath, or quiet white noise can soothe.

Gas drops and remedies

Simethicone gas drops have mixed evidence at best, and the AAP writers found no clear proof they help. The NHS says anti-colic drops, herbal and probiotic remedies aren't recommended for colic. Ask your pediatrician before giving any medicine or remedy.

When to call your pediatrician

• Crying that won't settle, or you're worried about your baby's crying.
• A cry that's weak, high-pitched or sounds unlike your baby's usual cry: call emergency services.
• Colic signs still there after 4 months of age.
• Vomit that's forceful, green or has blood in it, or fewer pee diapers than usual. See the spit-up guide.
• Fever in a young baby. See the fever guide.