RGO, spit-up, thickened milk, solids... Does it feel like you’ve landed in a whirlwind of acronyms, conflicting advice, and endless doubts?
We get it. And here’s some good news: you’re not alone. We’ve gathered here all the questions every parent asks themselves when Baby spits up more than they sleep. You’ll find clear, kind, and breastfeeding-friendly answers — of course!
Not quite sure what reflux in babies really is? Start with our article on understanding infant reflux
Spit-up or true reflux?
Let’s be real: all babies spit up!
This is totally normal and usually caused by an immature digestive system. Baby “bringing up” some of their milk isn’t necessarily alarming — or pathological.
In fact, our bodies have natural ways to minimize or neutralize reflux:
- the esophagus contracts to push contents back into the stomach,
- saliva contains compounds that reduce the acidity of the reflux,
- and the esophageal lining is designed to resist occasional acid exposure.
Reflux only becomes a concern when it causes discomfort or pain.
Should I give up breastfeeding and switch to thickened formula?
Many pediatricians still routinely suggest switching to thickened formula to treat reflux.
But studies have shown that thickened milk has little to no effect on severe reflux — and can even make things worse. When it comes back up, thickened milk can cause more damage to the esophagus.
And yet, shelves are still packed with anti-reflux formulas...
If your doctor recommends stopping breastfeeding due to reflux, they may not be fully trained in lactation.
What’s the best sleep position to ease reflux?
Research has shown that a tummy-down inclined position (baby lying on their belly with head higher than hips) can reduce reflux episodes. But it also increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
You can try this during the day while baby naps on you (or on the other parent!), for instance.
At night, when you’re asleep and less alert, this position should be avoided.
Some parents try a back-lying inclined position (baby on back, head above hips). This might help... or cause other issues. Only follow this option if your pediatrician specifically recommends it.
Should I start solids earlier to reduce reflux?
Tempted to start solids early, thinking thicker foods might stay down better than milk?
Actually… no.
Studies are quite clear: 71.4% of babies already on solids were still spitting up — compared to 57.7% of exclusively milk-fed babies.
Breastmilk digests very quickly, reducing reflux risk. A puréed carrot? Slower to digest — and more likely to come back up.
When will reflux go away?
Most babies outgrow reflux between 8 and 12 months.
As their digestive systems mature, everything starts running smoothly.
If reflux continues past the 12-month mark, your pediatrician may recommend further investigations to identify the root cause.
Hopefully, you now feel a little more empowered to face your baby’s reflux.
No matter how tough things get, remember this: you’re not powerless. Your loving presence brings comfort in the midst of this sensory storm.
Take every calm moment as an opportunity for sweetness and snuggles — little glimpses of how beautiful life can be.
And above all: take care of yourself! A well-fed, rested parent is a super-parent
Feeling the fatigue creeping in day after day? Check out our 10 best tips to boost sleep when baby keeps you up.
Once you’ve recharged your batteries, you’ll be ready to switch back into Action Mode.
To help you find concrete solutions to tackle GERD, download our interactive anti-GERD roadmap .
