Introduction
Hiccups are quite common in babies, and can be due to several reasons. While mostly harmless, they can be disturbing for the baby. Also, parents or caregivers may often get worried about their baby’s frequent hiccups. In this article, we will some share techniques and tips to manage hiccups in babies. Also, we will discuss about why babies get hiccups and share some tips on how to avoid them. We will also look at when it is time to see a doctor. And finally, we will debunk some myths related to hiccups.
Understanding Baby Hiccups
What Causes Hiccups in a Baby?
Hiccups in a baby mostly occur due to diaphragm contractions. The diaphragm is a muscle. It sits at the bottom of the lungs and is key for breathing. If it contracts suddenly and without warning, air rushes in. This causes hiccups1.
Other causes of hiccups include:
- Spicy foods that may irritate diaphragm
- Food aspiration in trachea
- Some neurological conditions
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Incomplete Swallowing
Are Hiccups in a Baby Normal?
- Yes, hiccups are normal. No need for panic. They can start even before birth and can go on for a few months. Typically, a hiccup spell lasts for a few minutes and ends by itself1.
- Interestingly, studies say hiccups might help in the baby’s growth. Especially in developing muscles needed for breathing. So, these small diaphragm contractions could be helping your baby grow2.
Techniques That May Help Stop Hiccups in a Baby
If your worried about your baby’s hiccups, try these simple measures to ease their discomfort:
1. Take a Break and Burp
- Burping helps get rid of trapped gas. This in turn lowers pressure on the diaphragm. Hold your baby upright and pat their back gently. It helps release any trapped air3.
- For bottle feeders, burp them every 2-3 ounces of milk4. While breastfeeding, try burping them when you switch sides. Keep trying different positions to see what suits your baby the best3.
2. Use Dummies
- Using a dummy may ease hiccups1. The gentle sucking action can calm the diaphragm. It can lessen the jumpy movements that cause hiccups. However, when you pick a dummy, make sure it is age appropriate. And clean it often. Make sure it is made from safe, non-toxic materials. Do not make your own dummies at home from bottles or plastics5.
3. Try White Noise
White noise is a consistent sound with multiple audible frequencies usually played to help soothe babies. Something like a humming of fan, this sound can help distract your baby from hiccups and is likely to put them to sleep.
4. Let Them Stop on Their Own
- If your baby’s hiccups are not bothering them, let it be. Hiccups usually last only a few minutes and stop by themselves. But if they last longer or make the baby uneasy, try one of the methods discussed above.
- Keep an eye on your baby’s hiccups. Note how often they happen and their length. If you notice anything odd, contact your paediatrician1.
Gripe Water and Other Natural Remedies
What is Gripe Water?
- It is a mix of herbs and water. It is often used to ease baby tummy issues. It has ingredients like ginger, fennel, and cinnamon. While there’s no science-backed evidence, some parents feel it eases stomach upset and hiccups6.
Potential Side Effects
- While gripe water is safe for most, it’s not suggested to be used in babies less than six months old. It can be adulterated with potential risks of infection and liver and kidney issues7. Thus, before trying gripe water always check with your paediatrician. Never self-administrate to your baby.
Alternative Natural Remedies
- Sips of cold water or giving babies some fruits to bite may help ease muscle spasm and hiccups. But these should be tried in babies above 6 months of age.
- Gentle back and belly rubs might help too1,3. They may push out any trapped air and ease the diaphragm. Keep a light touch. Watch your baby’s response to make sure they are comfortable.
How to Prevent Hiccups in Babies
Feeding Techniques
- Feed your baby upright1. It helps avoid hiccups by stopping air from getting trapped. Their head should be higher than their stomach as they feed3.
- Avoid overfeeding. You may feed them often, but little. This helps to prevent excessive feeding and fast eating, both of which cause hiccups1. Burping your baby during feeding can also keep hiccups away4.
Encouraging Tummy Time
- Tummy time is key for your baby’s growth. And you can start it once the umbilical cord stumps fall from body. Tummy time strengthens their neck, back, and arm muscles8. By making the diaphragm stronger, tummy time may help control hiccups better.
When to Seek Medical Help?
You baby needs medical attention if you notice the following:
- Prolonged Hiccups: If hiccups are continuous, lasting more than 20-30 min, consult a paediatrician.
- Breathing difficulties: Seek medical advice if there is any respiratory distress associated with hiccups1.
- Interference with Feeding or Sleeping: If hiccups stop your baby from feeding or sleeping well, there could be a serious issue. If this happens, call your paediatrician.
A paediatrician can find any hidden health issues causing the hiccups. They can suggest managements based on your baby’s health and past medical records1.
Usually, baby hiccups are painless. However, if your baby is diagnosed with gastro-esophageal disease (GERD) they might experience discomfort from hiccups due to acid reflux, where stomach acid comes back up into the food pipe9. If your baby is coughing or spitting up while having hiccups, consult your doctor for advice and possible treatment options to reduce your baby’s discomfort10.
Techniques and Tips to Avoid Hiccups
Hiccups are a normal part of baby growth. If you are hoping to find a magic remedy for hiccups, in reality, most kids grow out of regular hiccups as they get older. So, avoid trying these so-called hiccup remedies:
- Stop trying old wives’ tips like scaring your baby or pulling on their tongue that don’t work or can even harm your baby.
- Some herbal teas that are said to help with hiccups, such as chamomile, fennel, and peppermint, are not recommended to be used in babies. Stick to what your doctor says and always check with them if you want to try something new.
Your baby’s safety comes first in curing hiccups. Don’t use any method that could hurt your baby. It is crucial to follow only proven methods and to listen to your paediatrician.
Also Read: Effective Baby Care Tips Parents Must Know
Conclusion
In short, hiccups are a normal part of a baby’s growth. New parents may find them disturbing. Yet, most of them pass fast, needing no management. Use proven ways like burping, using a dummy, and feeding upright to handle hiccups. If you see any odd patterns or long-lasting hiccups, call your paediatrician. Knowing the common causes of hiccups and how to manage them may help you handle them well.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do all babies hiccup a lot? Most young kids get hiccups often. It’s a normal part of growing up. If hiccups last long or occur often, see your paediatrician.
How do I stop my baby from hiccupping? To stop baby hiccups, take breaks to burp them. Or give them a pacifier. Or you can simply wait for the hiccups to stop on their own without any help.
Can you lay a baby down while hiccupping? While laying a baby down may not make hiccups worse, holding them upright is better. It helps get rid of air trapped in the stomach.
Does tummy time help with hiccups? Yes, tummy time may help reduce hiccups. It strengthens muscles around the diaphragm, which controls hiccups. Always keep a close eye on your baby during tummy time.
How long should baby hiccups last? Typically, baby hiccups last only a few minutes and stop by themselves. If hiccups last for over half an hour, see your paediatrician.
References
- Australia H. Hiccups [Internet]. 2019. Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/hiccups
- Howes D. Hiccups: a New Explanation for the Mysterious Reflex. BioEssays. 2012 Feb 29;34(6):451–3. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3504071/
- UNICEF. Baby basics: How to Burp Your Baby [Internet]. www.unicef.org. Available from: https://www.unicef.org/parenting/child-care/how-to-burp-baby
- Baby Burping, Hiccups & Spit-Up [Internet]. HealthyChildren.org. 2025. Available from: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/feeding-nutrition/Pages/baby-burping-hiccups-and-spit-up.aspx
- Pacifiers (soothers): a user’s Guide for Parents. Paediatrics & Child Health. 2003 Oct;8(8):520–1. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2791560/
- PROJECT REPORT of PURPOSE OF THE DOCUMENT [Internet]. [cited 2025 Mar 8]. Available from: https://www.kviconline.gov.in/pmegp/pmegpweb/docs/commonprojectprofile/gripewaterplant.pdf
- Oregon WIC Training Infant Feeding and Nutrition Module Staff Training [Internet]. [cited 2025 Nov 20]. Available from: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYPEOPLEFAMILIES/WIC/Documents/modules/infant-feeding-and-nutrition-staff.pdf
- Tummy Time Information for Families | HeadStart.gov [Internet]. HeadStart.gov. 2024. Available from: https://headstart.gov/publication/tummy-time-information-families
- Cole JA, Plewa MC. Singultus (Hiccups) [Internet]. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538225/
- NHS. Reflux in Babies [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2017. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/reflux-in-babies/
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