Spitting Up in Babies

Many babies suffer from reflux: spitting up milk after feeding. This is usually normal and goes away on its own. Sometimes, however, it can be a problem.

What are the possible causes?

Reflux is common in healthy babies. It is most common around 4 months of age. Spitting up usually decreases after 6 months. Reflux can have various causes:

  • Immature lower esophageal sphincter: In young babies, the sphincter between the stomach and the esophagus opens more frequently, causing milk to flow back.
  • Full stomach: A full stomach can cause milk to flow back up. Babies have a smaller stomach capacity, so their stomachs fill up more quickly.
  • Swallowing air: This increases the pressure in the stomach.
  • Sleeping position: Babies spend more time lying down, and lying flat on their backs after feeding can worsen reflux.

What can you do on your own?

  • Serve smaller portions: It's better to eat small amounts more often.
  • Help your baby burp: Take a break while feeding.
  • Hold your baby upright for 20–30 minutes after feeding.
  • Avoid putting pressure on the abdomen. Do not wear tight clothing or use full diapers.
  • Carob flour: Add this to formula or expressed breast milk

When should you see a pediatrician?

Your family doctor or pediatrician will determine whether your child needs a referral to a pediatrician. Call or visit your family doctor if:

  • Your baby isn't feeding well, isn't gaining weight, or is losing weight.
  • Your baby is crying a lot and seems to be in pain.
  • There is blood or green mucus in the vomit.
  • Your baby coughs frequently or has trouble breathing.
  • Your baby often chokes because of reflux.

What do we do?

At De Kinderartsenpraktijk, we take the time to listen carefully to your story. We closely monitor your child’s growth and examine your child from head to toe. Usually, there is no medical cause for the spitting up. If the pediatrician thinks there is more to it than “normal” reflux, treatment will be started.

More information

Frequently Asked Questions

With a referral from your primary care physician or pediatrician, care provided by a pediatrician is covered under basic health insurance. There is no deductible for children, so our care won’t cost you anything. You can find more information about this on the reimbursement page.

If your child is already receiving treatment from us, you can request repeat prescriptions for medication or authorizations for special dietary needs. You can do this by calling or sending an email to the location where your child is registered.

I would like to make an appointment

To make an appointment at De Kinderartsenpraktijk in Amsterdam, The Hague, or Rotterdam, you’ll need a referral from your family doctor or pediatrician.

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