Quick answer: Baby hiccups are caused by sudden contractions of the still-maturing diaphragm, and they are almost always harmless. They do not hurt your baby or affect breathing. Winding, a more upright feeding position, a dummy, or simply waiting usually helps, and most bouts settle within 5–10 minutes. Speak to your GP if hiccups are very frequent, distressing, or come with vomiting or feeding difficulties.
What parents need to know
Hiccups are one of those things that can send a new parent into a mild panic, especially when they happen frequently or seem difficult to stop. The reassuring truth is that hiccups in babies are almost always completely harmless — and many babies hiccup a great deal, especially in the newborn weeks.
Why do babies get hiccups?
Hiccups are caused by sudden contractions of the diaphragm — the large muscle beneath the lungs that controls breathing. In babies, the diaphragm is still maturing and can be easily triggered by:
- Eating too quickly or swallowing air during feeds
- A full stomach pressing on the diaphragm
- A drop in stomach temperature (for example, after a cold feed)
- Excitement or sudden temperature changes
Interestingly, babies hiccup in the womb too — you may remember feeling those rhythmic little jolts during pregnancy.
Are hiccups bad for babies?
No. Hiccups do not hurt babies and do not affect their breathing. Many babies sleep through them without any bother at all. While frequent hiccupping can look distressing to a parent, your baby is generally quite unbothered.
How to stop baby hiccups
There is no guaranteed cure, but the following often help:
- Take a break from feeding and wind your baby. Bringing up a burp can relieve the diaphragm pressure causing the hiccups.
- Try a different feeding position. Holding your baby more upright during feeds can reduce the air swallowed.
- Offer a dummy (if you use one). Sucking can help relax the diaphragm and may stop hiccups.
- Simply wait. Most bouts of hiccups resolve on their own within 5–10 minutes without any intervention at all.
Avoid the home remedies sometimes suggested for adults (like holding your breath or drinking upside down) — these are not safe or appropriate for babies.
Should I feed through hiccups?
Yes, if your baby is hungry. Hiccups do not prevent a baby from feeding safely. If anything, the sucking motion can sometimes help the hiccups settle faster.
Hiccups and reflux
Frequent hiccups can sometimes be associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR), where stomach acid travels back up into the oesophagus. If your baby has hiccups alongside other reflux symptoms — such as bringing up large amounts of milk, arching their back during feeds, or seeming in persistent discomfort — it is worth discussing with your GP or health visitor.
When to see a doctor
Hiccups rarely require medical attention. However, speak to your GP if hiccups are very frequent and persistent (lasting more than an hour regularly), appear to be causing your baby distress, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting or feeding difficulties.
Frequently asked questions
How long do baby hiccups last?
Most bouts settle on their own within 5–10 minutes, without you needing to do anything at all.
Can I feed my baby while they have hiccups?
Yes, if your baby is hungry. Hiccups do not stop a baby feeding safely, and the sucking motion can sometimes help the hiccups settle faster.
Are baby hiccups a sign of reflux?
Frequent hiccups can sometimes be linked with reflux. If they come with bringing up large amounts of milk, back arching during feeds, or persistent discomfort, speak to your GP or health visitor.
Sources & further reading
General information, not individual medical advice. Speak to your GP, midwife or health visitor about your baby’s needs.
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