Understanding Infant Reflux: When Spit-Up Isn’t “Just Normal”

Yes — babies spit up. But when spit-up is paired with fussiness, back-arching, gas, congestion, poor sleep, or discomfort after feeds, it may be more than “normal newborn behavior.” Ongoing reflux can impact feeding, growth, and the overall well-being of both baby and family.

You shouldn’t have to guess what’s normal or wait for your baby to “grow out of it.” Understanding why reflux is happening is the key to helping your baby feel better.

What Exactly Is Reflux?

Reflux occurs when milk and stomach contents move back up into a baby’s esophagus. While some degree of reflux is expected — especially in young infants with immature digestive systems — pain and persistent discomfort are not.

Common signs of reflux or feeding-related discomfort include:

• Frequent or forceful spit-up

• Fussiness during or after feeding

• Back-arching or twisting away

• Gagging, coughing, or choking

• Clicking or leaking milk during feeds

• Congestion or noisy breathing

• Difficulty settling after feeds

• Gas, bloating, or belly tension

• Mucus or blood in stools

• Rashes or eczema

• Poor weight gain or slow growth

These symptoms are signals that something in the feeding system needs support.

Why Do Some Babies Experience More Reflux Than Others?

Reflux is rarely caused by just one factor. Most often, it’s a combination of the way baby feeds and how their body moves.

Some of the most common contributors include:

◾ Feeding Position

Babies who feed in certain positions may swallow more air or struggle with milk flow.

◾ Shallow Latch or Inefficient Milk Transfer

A shallow latch — at breast or bottle — often leads to increased air intake, discomfort, and more spit-up.

◾ Oral Motor Tension or Tongue Mobility Issues

Tension in the cheeks, jaw, tongue, or neck can affect sucking, swallowing, and digestion.

◾ Body Tension or Musculoskeletal Patterns

C-section birth, fast delivery, torticollis, or in-utero positioning can create tightness that impacts feeding comfort and digestion.

◾ Bottle Nipple Flow Mismatch

Flow that is too fast or too slow can cause stress, swallowing difficulties, or discomfort.

◾ Milk Protein Sensitivity or Food Allergies

Some babies — breastfed or formula-fed — react to proteins such as dairy, soy, or egg. Signs may include:

• Excess mucus or blood in stools

• Significant congestion

• Eczema or rashes

• Gas and discomfort

• Increased reflux or vomiting

Understanding whether reflux is structural, functional, allergy-related, or technique-related makes a tremendous difference in treatment.

How We Approach Reflux: A Whole-Body, Whole-Family Model

At our clinic, we take a collaborative, comprehensive approach to infant reflux. Our team includes:

• IBCLC Lactation Consultants

• Physical Therapists (PT)

• Occupational Therapists (OT)

• Speech-Language Pathologists (SLP)

• Craniosacral Therapists (CST)

Together, we assess:

• Feeding mechanics

• Tongue and oral motor function

• Body alignment and muscle tension

• Nervous system regulation

• Optimal positions and pacing

• Parent comfort and feeding goals

• Possible allergy or sensitivity contributions

We don’t just mask reflux symptoms — we help uncover the root cause and build a plan that supports comfort, calmer feeds, and better digestion.

If Allergy or Sensitivity Is Suspected

We work closely with your pediatric provider to explore:

• Formula transitions

• Maternal elimination diets (when indicated)

• Bottle or position adjustments

• Weight and symptom monitoring

• Clear next steps so you never feel alone or confused

Our goal is never unnecessary restriction — it’s clarity, evidence-based support, and protection of your feeding relationship.

What Relief Can Look Like

With the right support, many families see improvements such as:

• Less spit-up

• Happier, calmer feeds

• Better sleep after feeding

• Less gas and congestion

• More comfortable latch and positioning

• Improved weight gain

• A more peaceful feeding rhythm

When babies feel better, feeding becomes easier — and the whole home feels lighter.

You Don’t Have to Navigate Reflux Alone

Infant reflux can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re tired, worried, and trying to do everything “right.” But you don’t have to troubleshoot on your own.

We’re here to bring clarity, comfort, and confidence to your feeding journey. 💛
If your little one is struggling with reflux or feeding discomfort, our multidisciplinary team is ready to help.