Part Of the BePeace Newborn 101 series
Hiccups are very common in newborn babies and are usually harmless.
Essential First Guides For Every Parent
What is normal?
Many newborns experience hiccups several times a day, especially in the first few months of life. Parents often notice hiccups after feeding, during burping, or when the baby changes position.
Hiccups occur due to sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, the muscle that helps with breathing. When this muscle contracts quickly, the vocal cords close briefly, producing the familiar “hic” sound.
In newborns, the nervous system and digestive system are still developing, which makes hiccups more frequent than in older children or adults.
It is normal for:
- hiccups to last a few minutes
- hiccups to occur daily
- hiccups to happen after feeding
- hiccups to stop on their own
Some babies even get hiccups while sleeping or when slightly excited or stimulated.
Frequent hiccups in the early months do not usually indicate any problem.
What is recommended?
Parents can take simple steps that may reduce hiccups:
- burp the baby during and after feeding
- keep the baby upright for 10–15 minutes after feeds
- feed slowly and calmly
- ensure proper latch during breastfeeding
- avoid overfeeding
Sometimes, just changing the baby’s position or holding them upright helps hiccups settle faster.
In most cases, the best approach is simply waiting calmly for hiccups to stop naturally.
Is this serious?
Hiccups in newborns are usually not serious and are considered part of normal development.
They do not:
- harm the baby
- interfere with breathing
- affect feeding significantly
- cause pain
Most babies outgrow frequent hiccups by 3–6 months of age as their diaphragm control improves and digestion becomes more mature.
Occasional hiccups beyond this age can still be normal.
What should I do?
If your baby gets hiccups:
- hold the baby upright
- gently burp the baby
- continue normal feeding routines
- stay calm and observe
Avoid:
- startling the baby to stop hiccups
- pressing the abdomen
- giving water or other liquids
- using home remedies
These methods are unnecessary and may disturb the baby.
When to see a doctor
Medical advice may be helpful if hiccups occur along with:
- frequent vomiting
- poor feeding
- excessive crying or discomfort
- poor weight gain
- persistent cough
- breathing difficulty
- hiccups lasting unusually long periods repeatedly
These situations are uncommon but should be evaluated.
Common Parent Questions
Because the diaphragm reflex is still developing and easily triggered.
Not always. They may happen during or after feeding, but they don’t always indicate fullness.
No. Hiccups are common in both breastfed and formula-fed babies.
Usually no. If the baby is feeding comfortably, you can continue.
No. Breathing remains normal during hiccups.
Yes, and this is normal.
They may occur with feeding-related air swallowing, but not always.
Occasionally, reflux can be associated with hiccups, but hiccups alone do not mean reflux.
They usually become less frequent after a few months of life.
Most babies are not bothered by hiccups.
Not always. They are a normal reflex in newborns.