Quick Answer: Yes, frequent hiccups in babies are absolutely normal - and nothing to worry about! Babies can even hiccup in the womb. Hiccups usually stop on their own within a few minutes and rarely bother babies as much as they bother us. If your baby is feeding well and seems comfortable, those adorable "hic" sounds are just a normal part of baby life!
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Watch: Always look for this early hunger cues.Do you feed your baby only after they start crying?
Hiccups happen when the diaphragm (the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing) suddenly contracts, causing a quick intake of air. The vocal cords snap shut, creating that familiar "hic" sound.
| Cause | Why It Happens | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| **Swallowing air while feeding** | Baby gulps air along with milk | Proper latch, paced feeding |
| **Overfeeding** | Full stomach pushes on diaphragm | Smaller, more frequent feeds |
| **Eating too fast** | Rapid swallowing traps air | Burp breaks during feeding |
| **Temperature changes** | Sudden cold air | Keep baby warm |
| **Excitement or crying** | Irregular breathing patterns | Calm environment |
| **Gastric reflux** | Stomach acid irritates diaphragm | Upright position after feeds |
Fun fact: Babies start hiccuping in the womb as early as 6 weeks gestation! By 21 weeks, pregnant mothers can often feel these tiny hiccups. So your newborn has actually been practicing hiccups for months!
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1. Feed Before Baby Gets Too Hungry
2. Ensure Proper Latch (Stanpan Mein Sahi Latch)
3. Keep Baby at Correct Angle
4. Use Right Nipple Flow (For Bottle-Fed Babies)
Burp during feed breaks:
Effective burping positions:
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1. Take a Feeding Break
2. Burp Your Baby
3. Offer the Breast or Pacifier
4. Wait It Out
5. Gentle Rocking
Never try these common "adult" hiccup cures on babies:
These methods don't work and can be dangerous for babies!
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Your baby's hiccups are normal if:
See your pediatrician if hiccups are:
These could indicate gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) that needs treatment.
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Some babies with frequent hiccups may have reflux, where stomach contents come back up.
Signs of reflux:
If you suspect reflux:
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A: Yes, very normal! Newborns have immature digestive systems and frequently hiccup after feeding. This usually decreases as baby grows. Focus on good burping technique and proper latch.
A: Yes! Breastfeeding can actually help stop hiccups. The sucking motion relaxes the diaphragm. If baby is willing to feed, go ahead.
A: Gripe water is not recommended by most pediatricians in India. It's not proven to stop hiccups and some products may contain harmful ingredients. If you want to try, consult your doctor first.
A: Many babies who hiccuped frequently in the womb do continue to hiccup after birth, but this is completely normal and usually decreases with age.
A: Most babies outgrow frequent hiccups by 6-12 months as their digestive system matures. You'll notice them happening less often as your baby grows.
A: No! Hiccups don't cause pain or discomfort to babies. Adults find hiccups more annoying than babies do. If your baby seems happy between "hics," they're fine!
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This article was reviewed by pediatricians at Babynama. Last updated: January 2026
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