Hiccups in babies: What it is, causes, what to do

Welcome back dear readers, both male and female, to the Newborn Tips blog. Today you will discover everything about newborn hiccups: why they occur, how to relieve them and when they could be a sign that should not be underestimated.

Table of contents

What are hiccups in newborns?

Hiccups in babies are an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and helps with breathing.

So when the diaphragm suddenly contracts, the vocal cords close quickly, producing the characteristic sound of hiccups.

Why do newborns often have hiccups?

In particular, newborns often have hiccups because their diaphragm, the muscle that regulates breathing, is still developing and can contract easily.

What’s more, this involuntary contraction is often stimulated by several factors, as listed below:

Breastfeeding: Swallowing air while feeding
Temperature changes: Sudden changes from hot to cold
Immaturity of the nervous system: Which makes their reflexes more sensitive

In truth, hiccups in newborns are normal and usually harmless, being among the common physiological behaviors in the first months of life.

Causes of Hiccups in Newborns

Among the main causes of hiccups in newborns are the following, as previously mentioned:

Immature diaphragm: which, being still in the development phase, can contract easily.
Rapid feeding: Swallowing air during feeding (both breast and bottle) can stimulate hiccups.
Temperature changes: Sudden changes in body or environmental temperature can cause contractions of the diaphragm.

Other variables that can cause hiccups in newborns are attributable to:

Excessive satiety: Milk ingested in large quantities can cause stomach distension and stimulate the phrenic nerve, linked to hiccups.
Gastroesophageal reflux: In some cases, the return of small amounts of milk towards the esophagus can irritate the diaphragm.
Phrenic nerve stimulation: This nerve controls the movement of the diaphragm and can be easily stimulated in babies.

Usually, hiccups are physiological and not worrisome.

How to recognize hiccups in newborns?

Hiccups in babies are easy to recognize, although first-time parents may confuse them with other movements or sounds.

So let’s see what the main signs are to recognize hiccups:

Rhythmic contractions of the chest or abdomen: The baby’s body may make small, rhythmic and repetitive movements, similar to a slight jolt.
Typical “hic” sound: The contraction of the diaphragm produces a distinctive sound, similar to a “hic”, which is repeated at regular intervals.
The newborn does not show discomfort: Unlike colic or other disorders, hiccups usually do not cause crying or discomfort. The baby continues to breathe normally and may even sleep during the hiccups.
May appear after feeding or a change in position: Hiccups often appear after feeding, especially if the baby has swallowed air or eaten quickly.

How do you stop a baby from having hiccups?

To prevent hiccups in newborns, follow these tips:

Check the nipple: If you use a bottle, choose a nipple with an age-appropriate flow rate to prevent swallowing air.
Pause during feeding: Stopping and burping the baby helps eliminate swallowed air, reducing hiccups.
Correct position: Hold the baby slightly tilted during feeding, with the head higher than the body, to facilitate digestion.
Avoid overfeeding the baby: Feeding should be done in moderate amounts and frequently as well as calmly to prevent hiccups.

Once the baby has finished feeding, it is good to remember to:

Change position (post-feeding relaxation): Keep the baby upright for 15-20 minutes after feeding, leaning him against your shoulder, to help relax the diaphragm, aid digestion and reduce the risk of hiccups.
Offer a pacifier: Sucking relaxes the diaphragm and can stop hiccups.
Gently massage the back: This helps relax the muscles and can relieve hiccups in newborns.

In fact, by following these precautions, it is possible to reduce the frequency of hiccups related to feeding.

How to hold a baby when he or she has hiccups?

When your baby has hiccups, it is helpful to hold him or her in a position that promotes the relaxation of the diaphragm and helps expel any swallowed air. Here are some recommended positions:

Standing:

Hold your baby against your chest, with his or her head resting on your shoulder.

Gently support his or her head and neck with one hand, while gently massaging his or her back with the other.

Sitting on your lap:

Place your baby sitting on your lap, with his or her back straight and well supported.

Place one hand on his or her chest to support him or her, and massage his or her back with the other hand.

Belly down on your arm:

Lay your baby face down on your forearm, with his or her head supported by your hand.

Use your other hand to gently caress or massage his or her back.

In other words, these positions help relax the diaphragm and can help the hiccups pass.

Newborn hiccups: when to worry?

As previously mentioned, newborn hiccups are generally normal and harmless, but there are situations in which it is good to pay attention and, if necessary, consult your pediatrician. Here’s when to worry:

Frequent and prolonged hiccups: If the hiccups last more than 15-20 minutes or occur very often during the day, it could indicate an irritation of the diaphragm.
Associated with reflux: If the hiccups are accompanied by frequent spitting up, irritability, coughing or difficulty feeding, it could be a sign of gastroesophageal reflux.
Difficulty breathing: If they are accompanied by breathing problems, cyanosis (bluish coloration of the skin) or shortness of breath, it is important to act promptly.
Sleep or feeding disturbance: If the contraction of the diaphragm regularly interferes with the baby’s sleep or ability to feed, it may be worth investigating further.
Premature or other newborn: In premature babies or babies with health problems, very frequent hiccups may require closer monitoring.
Presence of other symptoms: Frequent vomiting, irritability, inconsolable crying or persistent cough.
Baby who is not gaining weight or is very restless: If it is associated with difficulty growing or severe discomfort, it is important to have a medical check-up.

Overall in these cases, it is advisable to talk to your pediatrician to rule out any underlying conditions and receive specific instructions.

What not to do in the case of newborn hiccups?

Above all, do not try to scare the baby or apply unsuitable home remedies (such as giving water or juice). Hiccups are natural and resolve spontaneously in most cases.

Also, do not shake the newborn and avoid making him lie down immediately after feeding.

Finally, if newborn hiccups persist frequently or seem to cause discomfort, you should always consult your pediatrician.

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Newborn Tips, The Editorial Team