Ways to Help Relieve Gas in Newborns
Gentle, proven techniques to ease your baby’s discomfort — from burping and bicycle legs to tummy time and massage.
SEE ALL METHODSWhy newborn gas happens: Babies’ digestive systems are still maturing, and swallowed air during feeding often gets trapped. Learning ways to help relieve gas in newborns can reduce crying, improve sleep, and make feeding time more peaceful. Below are the most effective, pediatrician-recommended techniques.
Proven Gas-Relief Techniques
🌬️ Burping 101
Burp your baby during and after each feed. Try the over-the-shoulder or sitting-on-your-lap position.
Gentle pats or rubbing the back in a circular motion help release trapped air.
See newborn feeding schedule →
🚲 Bicycle Legs
Lay your baby on their back and gently move their legs in a cycling motion. This helps stimulate the bowels and pushes trapped gas downward. Combine with gentle tummy pressure for even better results.
🧘 Tummy Time
Supervised tummy time isn’t just for strengthening neck muscles — it also applies gentle pressure to the abdomen,
encouraging gas to pass. Start with 2–3 minutes, 2–3 times a day.
More tummy time tips →
💆♀️ Baby Massage
Use gentle, clockwise circular strokes on your baby’s belly (with warm oil or lotion). This follows the natural
direction of the colon and can soothe colic symptoms. Always be gentle and watch your baby’s cues.
Calming products for babies →
🌿 Additional Comfort Measures
- 🛁 Warm bath: A warm bath relaxes abdominal muscles and helps release gas.
- 🍼 Feeding position: Keep baby’s head higher than their stomach during feeding to reduce air intake.
- ⏳ Paced bottle feeding: If using a bottle, use slow-flow nipples and take breaks to burp.
- 🌙 Sleep positioning: Always place baby on their back to sleep, but during awake time, try side-lying with support to help gas escape.
🩺 When to call your pediatrician
Gas is normal, but if your baby has constant crying, fever, vomiting, or a swollen, hard belly,
contact your doctor immediately. Trust your instincts — you know your baby best.
For more infant health guidance, read our
severe diaper rash guide
or explore
safe sleep products.
✨ Patience & consistency
Every baby is different. Try a combination of these ways to help relieve gas in newborns and observe what works best for your little one.
With time, you’ll become an expert at reading their cues and soothing them effectively.
Remember: you’re doing a great job. For more newborn care tips, visit our
newborn sleep guide
and tummy time tools.
⚠️ AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: This website contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read our full affiliate policy.
Top Gas-Relief Products for Newborns
Colicsoothe Anti-Colic Air Remover Bottle by Tommee Tippee - Relieves Colic, Gas, and Discomfort in Newborns, Infants & Babies, Advanced Air Removal Technology for Symptom Relief
Disclaimer
Baby product selection and parenting decisions involve personal preferences and individual circumstances. The information provided on CradleCheck is for educational and informational purposes only. We are not medical professionals, and our content should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your pediatrician or healthcare provider regarding your baby's health and safety. Some content may use AI assistance. Always check product safety standards and recalls before purchasing. If you do not agree, please do not use this website. Read the full disclaimer.