Overview
A baby's muscle at the top of the stomach is still developing, so milk flows back up.
A "happy spitter" who gains weight well doesn't need treatment.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Baby spitting up after feeds
Less common
- Wet burps
- Hiccups
Look up a symptom: Vomiting
When to get medical care
Call 911Green or bloody vomit, a baby who is limp or hard to wake, or trouble breathing.
Get care todayForceful (projectile) vomiting, refusing feeds, or signs of dehydration.
See a doctor soonPoor weight gain, crying during every feed, or spit-up starting after 6 months.
Causes
An immature valve at the top of the stomach.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Premature babies
Possible complications
- Forceful vomiting in a baby: Pyloric stenosis
Diagnosis
Your baby's doctor checks growth and feeding.
Questions you may be asked
- How much and how often
- Weight gain
The exam
A check of weight and belly.
Treatment
Simple feeding changes help.
Self-care
- Feed smaller amounts more often
- Burp during and after feeds
- Hold baby upright 20 to 30 minutes after feeds
- Always lay baby on their back to sleep
Don't add cereal to bottles unless the doctor says so.
Prevention
To reduce spit-up:
- Smaller feeds
- Burp often
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your child's pediatrician.
- They may send you to a pediatric specialist: a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most children can go to daycare or school as usual.
For caregivers
- Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
- Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
- Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Babies outgrow it.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- Feeding amounts
Questions to ask
- Is my baby growing well?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Baby spit-up (infant reflux)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.