Tiny Tummies, Big Challenges: Simple Fixes for Baby’s Tummy Troubles

By Dr. Katie Friedman, Board-Certified Pediatrician

One of the biggest challenges of parenting a newborn or infant is figuring out why your baby is 2crying. Sometimes, even after feeding, changing, and soothing them, they continue to fuss,  leaving parents feeling helpless. Few things are more stressful than being unable to comfort your baby. 

Gas, reflux, constipation, and general tummy discomfort are common culprits behind infant fussiness. The good news? Most of these issues are temporary and manageable with the right approach. Understanding the cause of your baby’s discomfort can help ease their tummy troubles and bring peace of mind.

Let’s go through some simple fixes to some common tummy troubles: 

Problem: Gas 

All babies experience some degree of gas, but the level of discomfort can vary. Gas is often caused by swallowing air while feeding – whether through crying, drinking too quickly, or using a bottle with air bubbles. Additionally, newborns have immature digestive systems, making them more prone to gassiness and indigestion. 

Fix: 

• Feed Baby in an Upright Position – Keeping your baby’s head elevated above their stomach while feeding can help reduce gas and reflux. 
• Burp Frequently – If bottle-feeding, burp your baby after every 2-3 ounces. For breastfeeding, burp between switching breasts and at the end of the feeding.
• Try an Over-the-counter Gas Remedy – For many parents, over-the-counter remedies like Mommy’s Bliss Gas Relief Drops can be a lifesaver when it comes to alleviating their baby's gas pains. Mommy’s Bliss Gas Relief Drops are a simethicone-based formula that works quickly to provide safe, gentle, and effective gas relief for babies! 
• Check for Food Sensitivities – In some cases, cow’s milk protein intolerance or sensitivity to something in a breastfeeding mother’s diet (such as dairy or caffeine) can contribute to gas and reflux. Always consult your pediatrician if you suspect a food allergy.  

Problem: Constipation 

Infant bowel movements can be irregular, but if your baby is straining, passing hard stools, or going several days without pooping, they may be constipated. Formula-fed babies are more prone to constipation than breastfed babies, as breast milk is more easily digestible. When a baby is constipated, it may be difficult and painful for them to release a harder stool, leading to stomach pain and bloating.

Fix: 

• Gentle Tummy Massages and Bicycle Leg Exercises – These can help stimulate digestion and can also help relieve constipation. 
• Warm Baths – A warm bath can help to relax your baby’s abdominal muscles,  helping ease constipation and gas.  
• Introduce Fiber to Your Babies Diet – If your baby has already begun solids, you may want to try purees like prunes, carrots, raspberries, or peaches to promote digestion.
• You may also want to try Mommy’s Bliss Baby Constipation Ease which is a liquid herbal supplement used to relieve occasional constipation and promote regular bowel movements. It is an extra-gentle formula made with prune juice, fennel, dandelion extract, and prebiotics.  

Problem: Colic 

Colic is defined as excessive crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week, in an otherwise healthy baby. While the exact cause is unknown, digestive discomfort may play a role. 

Most babies become fussier in the late afternoon or evening, but babies with colic can become inconsolable. No matter what soothing techniques parents try, colicky babies may continue to cry intensely for extended periods. 

Fix: 

Many colic-soothing methods mimic the comforting sensations of the womb: 

• Limit Overstimulation – Especially in the evening times you want to reduce noise, bright lights, and excessive movement to create a calm environment as you approach bedtime. 
• Swaddling – A snug blanket or swaddle can provide security and warmth like the womb environment.  
• Use White Noise or Heartbeat Sounds – These sounds can be soothing because they mimic what babies hear in utero. 
• Rocking or Swinging – Babies love gentle, rhythmic movements. Holding them in your arms and gently swaying or using a vibrating chair can help them to relax.
• Over-the-Counter Gas Remedy - Many parents find relief using Mommy’s Bliss Gripe Water, which contains organic fennel and ginger to ease occasional stomach discomfort from gas, colic, fussiness, and hiccups. It’s free of alcohol, parabens, artificial colors, and the top 8 allergens which, as a pediatrician, I appreciate. 

Problem: Reflux

Many babies experience mild reflux, where milk comes back up the esophagus, leading to spitting up and discomfort. While some spit-up is normal, excessive spitting up or signs of pain may indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). 

Fix: 

• Keep Baby Upright After Feedings – You should always hold your baby upright for 20-30 minutes after feeding which can help to reduce reflux. 
• Offer Smaller, More Frequent Feedings – Overfeeding can sometimes overwhelm a baby’s tiny tummy, worsening reflux. Try smaller and more frequent feedings.
• Evaluate for Food Sensitivities – Dairy, soy, and caffeine in a mother who is breastfeeding can sometimes aggravate reflux. Talk to your pediatrician if you think your baby may have reflux and start to eliminate some of these items from your diet. 
• Use an Inclined Position for Supervised Resting – While babies should always sleep on their backs, an inclined position during awake time (such as a bouncer or baby seat)  may provide some relief.

Final Thoughts

A baby’s digestive system is still developing, which means tummy troubles are common in the first year of life. While most issues resolve with time, simple adjustments to feeding techniques,  diet, and soothing methods can make a huge difference. 

As a pediatrician, I always remind parents that if their baby seems excessively fussy, has trouble eating, or experiences persistent digestive symptoms, they always reach out to their doctor for more guidance. A little reassurance can go a long way in ensuring both baby and parents get the comfort and support they need!  

By staying aware of your baby’s cues and making some of these gentle changes, you can navigate the first year with greater ease and confidence. 

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Dr. Katie Friedman is a compassionate pediatrician and proud mom of two who brings her passion for nurturing and educating families to everything she does. With years of experience in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, she’s dedicated to guiding parents through challenging moments with empathy and expertise. Dr. Katie believes in empowering caregivers with knowledge, helping them navigate their children’s health with confidence. Outside of her career, she cherishes life as a mom to Mason and Charlee, finding joy in sharing insights and connecting with families through her work and platform.