Baby hiccups can be cute, but if you’re wondering how to get rid of baby hiccups, you’re not alone.
The good news is, newborn hiccups aren’t usually dangerous and may even have some benefits for babies.
For instance, a 2019 study found that newborn hiccups are associated with brain development that could help regulate a baby’s breathing. The findings aren’t completely clear, so more research is being done on exactly how and why hiccups occur in babies.
However, for the most part, you can rest assured that your baby’s cute hiccupping is not harmful. But if you’re still wondering how to get rid of newborn hiccups, we’ve got some practical advice for that — and how to prevent them, too.
What causes baby hiccups?
Experts share baby hiccups remedies
We asked our experts – moms and doctors – to share their favorite ways of soothing hiccups.
Try a pacifier
Having your baby suck on their binkie or their beloved pacifier can help calm them, and may even out their breathing.
Nurse them
Sometimes the best way to help your baby get rid of a case of the hiccups is to nurse.
“I always nursed the baby per instructions from my very old-school Korean parents,” Soo Kie told Mom.com.
Consider gripe water
Have your baby take gripe water to reduce the gas in their stomach. Mom Sanna Jung shared with Mom.com that gripe water, along with ensuring her baby was comfortable and had a fresh diaper, was her special remedy for hiccups.
(Editor’s note: The American Academy of Pediatrics does not specifically recommend against using gripe water for babies, but it says there is no proof that it can be helpful for gas. Speak to your pediatrician before using it.)
Try a back massage
“Try rubbing your baby’s back in a circular motion to help release excess air and stop the hiccups,” shares registered nurse Chaunie Brusie.
Burp correctly
Burping your baby correctly not only reduces your little one’s chance of getting hiccups, but burping may also relieve the excess air that may be causing the hiccups.
When to seek medical help
There are instances when hiccups may indicate a more serious problem. Call a doctor or seek medical attention if:
- Your baby is having trouble breathing. In this case, 911 should be called immediately.
- The hiccups reoccur frequently. Contact a doctor and seek medical advice.
- The hiccups are accompanied by vomiting. Contact a doctor immediately.
- Your baby is in pain and has other symptoms alongside the hiccups. Contact a doctor immediately.
