Stop and seek immediate medical help if the newborn is choking, struggling to breathe, turning blue/gray, or has persistent coughing.
If the newborn is calm and not in distress, try burping during or after feeds.
Hold the newborn upright against your chest or shoulder with the head supported.
Gently pat or rub the baby’s back with a flat hand.
Try a seated position: sit the baby upright on your lap with head and neck supported, then gently pat/rub the back.
After a few minutes, pause and check if the baby is comfortable and not showing signs of distress.
If no burp comes, continue feeding as needed or return to a comfortable position for the next feed.
Keep the baby’s head higher than the stomach during attempts.
Keep sessions brief (about a few minutes) to avoid overhandling.
Burp after bottle feeds and sometimes during long breastfeeding sessions if the baby seems gassy or uncomfortable.
Stop burping and switch positions if the baby becomes fussy or seems uncomfortable.
Avoid vigorous shaking or harsh back blows.
Avoid pressing on the baby’s belly.
Wash hands before and after feeding and burping.
Contact a pediatrician or nurse if the baby has frequent vomiting, poor weight gain, severe reflux symptoms, or feeding difficulties.