This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Baby Vomiting
Spitting up is normal in babies — true vomiting is stronger, projectile, and often alarming. Learn the difference and when to take action.
Possible Causes
- 1Reflux/spitting up (common, usually harmless, resolves by 12 months)
- 2Gastroenteritis (virus)
- 3Pyloric stenosis (projectile vomiting, weeks 2-8, surgical emergency)
- 4Food intolerance
- 5Drinking too fast/too much
What You Can Do
- More frequent, smaller feeds
- Hold upright for 20-30 min after feeding
- Feed slowly, burp breaks
- For viral vomiting: ORS solution, small sips every 5-10 min
- Protect clothing and bedding
When to See a Doctor
- Projectile vomiting (pyloric stenosis?)
- Green/bilious vomiting → EMERGENCY (bowel obstruction possible)
- Dehydration (dry nappies, sunken fontanelle)
- Baby not gaining weight
- Blood in vomit
- Baby under 3 months with repeated vomiting
Age-Specific Notes
Spitting up peaks in the first 4-5 months and improves significantly once baby can sit. Pyloric stenosis typically appears at weeks 2-8 (more common in boys). After starting solids, vomiting may indicate intolerances.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is spitting up normal vs vomiting?
What is pyloric stenosis?
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This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.