How do I burp my newborn when upright/shoulder burping isn't working?

Moms suggest trying alternative positions - especially the supported sitting burp - and reassure that it's okay if the baby doesn't always burp, as long as there's no gas or discomfort.

Community Answers from Moms(6)

Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.

1. 1

   Hold the baby upright against your shoulder and gently pat - this is what nurses used and it worked well.

2. 2

   Try the sitting burp position with a slight tick-tock movement (doctor-suggested for burping difficulty and gas). The baby leans slightly forward with weight supported by your hand, not on the spine. This is what hospital nurses used and it's safe.

3. 3

   Try holding the baby tummy-down on your legs. You can lay the baby down after about 15 minutes unless they seem uncomfortable or spit up often.

4. 4

   It's okay even if the baby doesn't burp, as long as there's no gas or colic. You can do skin-to-skin, hold the baby, or use a baby carrier so you can walk around with the baby on your chest.

5. 5

   After feeding, hand the baby to someone else to burp and hold so you can rest.

6. 6

   You'll know when your baby needs to burp - they make a fish-like face when they can't. Many moms stop actively burping around 4 months and only help if the baby is fussy.