How to Burp Your Baby Correctly — Positions, Technique and How Long

Dr. Sandip Gupta

This video explains the correct way to burp a baby after feeding. How long: After feeding you should burp the baby for 10 to 15 minutes. Positions: There are three burping positions, shown on screen in the video. Use whichever of the three positions feels comfortable for the baby. Technique: While burping, do not stroke the baby with a flat hand and do not stroke hard. Tap gently and slowly with a cupped hand, so the air the baby swallowed while drinking milk comes out easily. Why it matters: If you do not burp the baby properly, the baby vomits the milk and brings the milk back out. So burping is very important. A common concern: Parents often complain that they burp the baby but do not feel it. You will not feel the air coming out every time, but that does not mean the baby has not burped. Gently tap for 10 to 15 minutes in whichever of the positions suits the baby, and do burp the baby. Relevant for: new parents learning how to burp a newborn after feeds; parents asking how long to burp and in which position; parents whose baby vomits or brings milk back up after feeding; parents unsure whether the baby has burped because they cannot hear or feel it; and parents wanting the correct hand technique for patting a baby's back. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every baby is different — please consult your pediatrician if your baby vomits repeatedly or forcefully, is not feeding well, or is not gaining weight.