Mother-2-Mother Concerns: Reflux

Reprinted from Mother-2-Mother.com (2000-2006), with permission from the author, Paula Y.

Many parents have never heard of reflux. Reflux, or GER (Gastroesophageal reflux) is a condition where irritating stomach acids are regurgitated into the esophagus, causing pain similar to adult heartburn. It usually occurs more when the baby is lying flat, and is often marked by frequent and/or excessive spitting up. It can be a hidden cause of colicky and night waking babies.

Babies that experience frequent (and often forceful) spitting up, obvious tummy pain day & night, marked fussiness after nursing (drawing up legs, knees to chest), arching or writhing as if in pain, extreme fussiness and crying may be experiencing reflux. A baby may experience all, or only some of the above symptoms. It is important to talk to your health care provider if you suspect your baby may have reflux, and to eliminate other issues which may “mock” the symptoms of reflux, like oversupply and food sensitivity. Also remember that breastfeeding a baby with reflux is one of the best things you can do to help!