Reflux is very common in babies, especially during the first few months of life. While it can be worrying for parents, in many cases it’s a normal part of a baby’s development and usually improves as they grow.
If your baby frequently spits up after feeds or seems uncomfortable during or after feeding, reflux could be the cause.
Baby reflux happens when milk flows back up from the stomach into the food pipe (oesophagus).
Because of this, babies often bring up small amounts of milk after feeding. This is sometimes called posseting or spitting up.
Reflux is most common in babies under six months and usually improves once babies begin sitting up, eating solids and their digestive system matures.

Common signs of reflux
Some babies with reflux seem completely happy, while others may appear uncomfortable. Signs can include:
• Frequent spitting up or vomiting after feeds
• Arching their back during or after feeding
• Fussiness during feeding
• Hiccups or frequent swallowing
• Difficulty settling after feeds
• Coughing or gagging
Many babies with mild reflux are often called “happy spitters”, meaning they bring up milk but are otherwise content and gaining weight normally.
While reflux often improves on its own, there are a few things that may help reduce symptoms:
Feed in a more upright position
Keeping your baby slightly upright during feeds may help milk stay down.
Burp your baby regularly
Pausing during feeds to burp your baby can help release trapped air.
Hold your baby upright after feeding
Keeping them upright for around 20–30 minutes after a feed may reduce spit-up.
Avoid overfeeding
Smaller, more frequent feeds can sometimes help if your baby is taking large amounts at once.
When to speak to a doctor
In most cases reflux is harmless and improves with time. However, you should seek medical advice if your baby:
• Is not gaining weight
• Has forceful or frequent vomiting
• Refuses feeds regularly
• Seems very distressed during feeding
• Has blood in their vomit or stool
• Has breathing problems or persistent coughing
In some cases, babies may have gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), which may require medical treatment.
For most babies, reflux is temporary and improves as their digestive system develops. Many babies outgrow reflux by the time they are 6 to 12 months old.