Reflux in Babies

Reflux in babies – what is it and are there alternatives to a reflux wedge or reflux pillow?

Acid reflux or ‘posseting’ as it’s also known, is unpleasant for both parent and baby. Acid reflux in babies is common, but it can be challenging to cope if you’re a new parent trying to work out what’s going on with your little one.

Bringing your little one home for the first time can be a whirlwind of emotions, from excitement to utter fear that you have a small human to take care of. Then, on top of that, a few days or weeks go by and reflux arrives too – just what you need when you don’t know what planet you’re on!

Most know that reflux is pretty common and that it isn’t generally life-threatening but it can leave you wondering what to do or where you’re going wrong.

By this point you’ll have become fully acquainted with regurgitated milk and the muslin square is now permanently attached to your shoulder to save what clothes you have left! However the crying, for most parents, can be the most stressful part of reflux, the feeling of being helpless.

Most babies who have reflux find it difficult to sleep well after nursing, which we all know only leads to more crying and an even more tired baby. By which point parents are tearing out what little hair they have left. The added “They’ll grow out of it” from friends and older family members just isn’t what you need to hear right now.

Using a flat mattress when babies suffer from acid reflux does not help. Some people recommend using a reflux wedge or reflux pillow but a specialist mattress is a much better option.

A SleepCurve Mattress is designed with a gentle slope towards the feet to encourage little one to keep milk down, whilst still being totally comfortable and allowing your baby to sleep in a natural, comfortable position.

Reflux in babies can cause discomfort and can also raise temperature. Your baby’s temperature is very important and care should be taken to avoid overheating. Ordinary cot or crib mattresses trap the heat against your baby’s body and head leading to discomfort.SleepCurve® mattresses feature integrated, rounded channels so excess heat can escape, leaving your baby comfortable and happy.

We would suggest you avoid the following where possible:

• Using car seats immediately after feeding
• Tight clothing or nappies around the abdomen
• Distractions such as TV, DVD and toys so nursing/ feeding is a relaxed time and the baby doesn’t become over excited
• Forced Feeding
• Exposure to Smoke.

We would recommend you try the following to help ease reflux:

• Using a SleepCurve Mattress
• Wind your baby frequently before, during and after feeds
• Keep your baby upright after nursing, at least 30 mins.