Newborn gassy and uncomfortable: why, and what to do

What's probably happening

A newborn digestive system is immature. Gas is the norm at this age, not a problem to fix.

In rough order of likelihood:

• Normal newborn gut. Coordinating the reflexes to pass wind and pass stool is something the baby is still learning. Straining and red-faced effort are part of the work.
• Air swallowed during crying or feeding. Crying makes them swallow more air, which makes them more uncomfortable, which makes them cry.
• Mistaken for hunger. Rooting and crying overlap with the gas signal. They may not actually be hungry.
• Foremilk-hindmilk imbalance (oversupply). Frothy or green stools, gulping at the breast, frequent fussiness — points to too much foremilk per feed.

When to escalate

If you need a break:

• After 30 minutes with no progress, or any time frustration builds: put the baby on their back in the cot (crib). Step out for 5 minutes. Hand over to a partner if one is in the house.

Get immediate medical care:

• Fever > 38°C in a baby under 3 months.
• Crying nonstop for 2 hours despite the steps above.
• Forceful or projectile vomiting — distinct from a small spit-up.
• Blood or mucus in the stool.