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Most babies have some reflux (spitting up), which is normal and usually resolves by 12 months. 'Silent reflux' is reflux without visible spit-up, so signs are subtler: frequent swallowing or gulping, coughing, arching, hoarseness, or fussiness. Separately, gagging while putting fingers or fists in the mouth is usually the normal gag reflex developing, not reflux. Share the gagging with your paediatrician so they can assess both.
⚠️ Caution:If your baby has poor weight gain, refuses feeds, has forceful or projectile vomiting, blood in spit-up, breathing pauses, or seems in real distress, see your paediatrician promptly. Don't start any reflux medication without medical advice.
Parents get anxious when a doctor diagnoses reflux even though the baby seems perfectly comfortable, wondering if they missed signs of pain. The reassurance is that reflux exists on a spectrum - many babies have mild or silent reflux with no distress - and that separate behaviours like gagging on their own fingers are typically normal oral development rather than a problem.
Here's what moms in our community shared based on their own experience.
Reflux doesn't always mean an unhappy, crying baby - some babies are 'happy spitters' or have silent reflux with no obvious discomfort. Signs can be frequent swallowing, small coughs, hoarseness, arching, or being fussy at the breast rather than clear pain after feeds.
The gagging when he puts his fingers in his mouth and then coughs and yawns sounds a lot like a normal developing gag reflex - lots of babies do this around this age as they explore their mouth. It's worth mentioning to your paed though, since you didn't tell them about it during the reflux check.
Keeping the baby upright for 20-30 minutes after feeds, smaller more frequent feeds, and a good burp helped ours. If the doctor diagnosed reflux, ask them specifically what symptoms they saw and whether anything actually needs treating - mild reflux usually just needs time.
The information shared on this page comes from real experiences of mothers in our community. While we strive to provide helpful insights, this content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your pediatrician, healthcare provider, or other qualified medical professional for any questions regarding your child's health or development.
Last reviewed: August 5, 2026
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