Reflux (milk coming back up)

What is reflux and how do I manage it?

Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) happens when food from the stomach comes back up into your baby's mouth or throat. It is very common in young babies because the valve (muscle) at the top of their stomach is not yet fully developed, so milk can come back up more easily. This is called posseting. You may see small amounts of milk come up or small vomits.  It sometimes happens after feeding your baby or when you change position and usually gets better by 6-12 months of age.

Reflux can sometimes be worse if:

• your baby drinks too much milk (overfeeding)
• your breastmilk flows very fast
• you are feeding a bottle too quickly
• you are laying your baby flat straight after a feed

Reflux may make babies fussy or uncomfortable. If your baby is generally happy, gaining weight, and settles with simple steps below, there is no need to worry. 

Young babies can sometimes be unsettled or cry for long periods during the day, even up to 5 hours. This can still be normal.

It can be stressful caring for a baby with reflux and a baby who is crying a lot.  Please take care of yourself and ask for help and support. It is okay to put your baby in their bed and take a short break. Take some deep breaths, calm down, or call someone for support.

You can learn more about why babies cry and how to settle them here:

Raising Children Network

Sydney Children’s Hospitals

PURPLE

What can I do to help my baby with reflux 

• It is important to always provide a safe sleep space for your baby even if they have reflux. This includes putting your baby on their back on a firm, flat mattress. Read more about safe sleep. 
• Feed slowly, this should take 20 to 30 minutes for bottle feeding and up to 40 minutes for breastfeeding.  Read more to understand when your baby is hungry or full.
• Hold your baby upright for 15-20 minutes after feeding. Help your baby burp.
• Try to keep things calm and follow your baby's signs for feeding and sleep. 
• Some fussiness during feeds and sleep is normal. 
• Remember that some days will be better than others.
• Take care of yourself and ask for help when you need it.
• Talk to your family doctor if problems continue.Do not give your baby medication unless a doctor tells you to. 

If you are  worried about your baby's reflux, talk to your family doctor or child and family health nurse or contact the Tresillian Parent Helpline on 1300 272 736 for advice.

When should i be worried?

Sometimes reflux can be more serious, and this is called GORD (Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease).

 Symptoms of GORD:

• poor weight gain or weight loss
• baby is very fussy, upset or distressed during or after feeds even after trying the steps above
• cries a lot or seems very irritable, or arches their back
• vomits often
• Choking, coughing or wheezing during feeds
• Refusing to feed

If your baby is showing these signs, please see your family doctor. If your baby has blood in their vomit or their vomit is yellow or green, please go to the Hospital. 

More information

For more information, go to:

Kids Health Information : Reflux (GOR) and GORD (rch.org.au)

Breastfeeding and reflux | Australian Breastfeeding Association