Reflux and Breastfeeding

Abby, my second daughter began projectile vomiting as a newborn and continued until she was about 4 months old. The fact that I had an oversupply of breastmilk and and overactive letdown did not help matters either. I remember pointing her away from me after feeds to burp her to avoid the spewage of vomit on my clothes. It would shoot like 2 feet across the room. NOT spitup, projectile vomiting. I had wet shoes (and about 8-10 bibs a day) but not so many clothing changes required by my "pointing out technique".

The decision is ultimately up to you.

Research and decide for yourself if medication or "waiting it out" are the path you will take to make it through this challenge.In the meantime here are some tips to minimize symtoms:

• Empty a breast completely before switching breasts
• Consider using a food journal to isolate possible food allergies.
• Elevate the baby at a 45+degree angle after feeds, in a sling, bouncer, carseat, swing or such. Avoid lying flat.
• Reduce caffeine intake and eliminate exposure to cigarrette smoke
• Keep breastfeeding. Do not be tempted to supplement. Studies have shown babies have less symptoms on breastmilk than on ANY formula including those with added rice.

What if your baby is not PROJECTILE vomiting but is just fussy?

If it is after feeds then a food journal is in order to see if it is food related. If the crying occurs for hours at a time, it could be infant colic. If you think your child has colic, you should see your doctor. immediately. If you believe it is just gas, there are some products below that might interest you.

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