Spitting up, Reflux and Sleep can coexist!

Dear Reflux Mama,

Hi there. I was once in your shoes—twice, in fact! Please hear me out and trust me if you’re willing. I know what you’re going through, and I’m here to help. Your reflux baby can sleep well!

If you suspect your baby has reflux, your pediatrician can help determine if it’s true acid reflux or if they’re simply a “happy spitter.” Spitting up is extremely common in babies, but if you’re noticing any of the following symptoms, it’s important to consult your baby’s doctor. This information is not meant to substitute for medical advice. 

Reflux in babies can be identified by several symptoms. Frequent spitting up, especially after feedings, is common. Babies may also show signs of discomfort, such as irritability, crying, and arching their backs during or after feeding. Feeding difficulties, including refusing to eat or eating only small amounts, can occur. Additionally, gagging, choking, persistent coughing, wheezing, poor weight gain, and difficulty sleeping are all potential indicators of reflux.

I have a lot of personal experience (trauma?) with reflux. Two of my three children were diagnosed with reflux and were medicated until around six months to control it. I felt the weight of it every single day (and night). I stressed about how much spitting, about holding them upright, about laying them flat to sleep, and about my own diet to keep some of it at bay.

The struggles of a reflux baby are not lost on me. However, a reflux baby can sleep well. Once I figured out how all the factors worked together, we overcame the “bad sleep” aspect. I hope to bring some light to reflux mamas with this newsletter.

Reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort. While it’s common in infants, it can disrupt sleep due to pain and frequent waking. Here’s how you can create a sleep-friendly environment for your baby with reflux once your baby’s reflux is being managed per your pediatrician:

1. Follow Eat-Play-Sleep
The number one sleep training rule is applicable here, too. When the feed is separated from sleep, your baby’s milk has time to digest before they’re laid down.

2. Space Out Feedings
Spacing feedings every 2.5 to 3 hours allows your baby’s digestive system to rest and process the previous meal before introducing more food. This approach can reduce the volume of stomach contents at any given time, minimizing the chances of reflux and helping your baby feel more comfortable.

3. Pace Feed or Unlatch Your Baby During Letdown
A letdown while breastfeeding is fast and often too overwhelming for the baby. A lot of air can be swallowed, your baby may choke while trying to keep up, and air bubbles are let into their bellies.

4. Burp Often & Hold Upright After a Feed
Burping every couple of ounces can be helpful while feeding. Holding your baby upright for 15-20 minutes after each feed will help keep the contents down (and it’s part of their awake time, so win-win!).

5. Follow Safe Sleep Guidelines
Alternating your baby’s sleep environment is never worth the risk. Your baby should sleep on a flat, firm surface free of loose blankets or pillows. Following the AAP’s safe sleep guidelines is always our top priority, reflux or otherwise.

6. Consider Your Own Diet
A lot of babies don’t digest dairy well (ironically!), so sometimes cutting dairy from your own diet if you’re nursing can help tremendously.

7. Be Patient & Keep Practicing
This won’t happen overnight, especially if your baby is used to being fed to sleep. They’ll be working through a whole change in routine, and it’ll take some time. Consistency is crucial and the way to make changes happen and stick!

Sleep is vital for your baby’s growth and development, and managing reflux effectively can make a significant difference. If you have any questions or need support, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you and your baby achieve restful, restorative sleep.

Cheers to more Slumber Time!