How to Cope with Silent Reflux in Babies
A Gentle Guide for Sleepless Days, Fussy Feeds, and Finding Your Rhythm Again
Some babies cry after feeds. Others don’t — but they still squirm, arch, gag, and struggle to settle. If your baby seems unsettled but rarely spits up, you might be dealing with silent reflux — a surprisingly common (and often overlooked) condition in young infants.
At Neutral Nest, we’re here to support you through the blurry-eyed days and long nights — with empathy, information, and practical tips to help both you and your baby find calm again.
What Is Silent Reflux?
Silent reflux, or laryngopharyngeal reflux, happens when stomach acid flows back up the oesophagus but doesn’t always come all the way out as a spit-up. That’s why it’s called “silent” — the signs are subtle, but the discomfort is real.
Signs Your Baby Might Have Silent Reflux
Every baby is different, but here are common signs to look for:
Frequent coughing, hiccupping, or gulping during or after feeds
Back arching or squirming during feeding
Refusing to feed or pulling away from the breast/bottle
Feeding for very short bursts, then stopping
Congestion or noisy breathing
Excessive crying, especially when lying down
Short naps or frequent waking
If your instincts say something’s not right, trust that — even if others say “they’re just fussy.”
What Causes It?
The valve at the top of the stomach (the lower oesophageal sphincter) is still developing in babies. It may not fully close after feeding, allowing milk and acid to flow back up. Some babies also have more sensitive digestive systems, making them more reactive to even small amounts of reflux.
How to Cope — and Help Your Baby Feel Better
1. Keep Baby Upright After Feeding
Hold your baby upright for 20–30 minutes after each feed. This helps gravity do its job and reduces reflux episodes.
A baby carrier or wrap can help you do this hands-free while staying close and supported.
2. Try Smaller, More Frequent Feeds
Large feeds can overwhelm a sensitive tummy. Offer smaller amounts more often, watching for your baby’s hunger cues.
Paced bottle feeding can also help reduce air intake and slow down feeding.
3. Incline the Sleeping Space (Safely)
Slightly elevating the head of the crib or using a reflux wedge under the mattress (not in the sleeping area) can help. Never prop your baby up with pillows or loose items in the crib — always follow safe sleep guidelines.
Our Shnuggle Air Lite Bedside Crib is a thoughtful option, with a gentle incline feature that’s ideal for babies with reflux or congestion.
4. Try Burping More Often
Frequent burping during and after feeding helps release trapped air — which can worsen reflux. Gently burp every few minutes during the feed, not just at the end.
5. Watch for Triggers
Some babies are more sensitive to certain formulas or foods. If breastfeeding, it may help to trial cutting out dairy, caffeine, or spicy foods — but only with guidance from your GP or health visitor.
6. Swaddle or Hold for Naps (Safely)
Reflux babies often sleep better upright or in arms. Swaddling (before rolling begins) can also reduce flailing, helping them feel calmer. Contact naps may be key to survival in the early months — and that’s okay.
You’re not “spoiling” your baby. You’re helping them feel safe.
When to Speak to a GP or Health Visitor
It’s important to get support if:
Your baby is refusing most feeds
Not gaining weight well
Seems to be in constant discomfort
Has blood in spit-up or stools
Or if you’re feeling overwhelmed and unsure
Your GP may suggest:
Infant Gaviscon or reflux medications
Hypoallergenic formula
Feeding support or referrals if needed
You don’t have to navigate this alone.
Caring for You, Too
Reflux is exhausting. The crying, the feeding battles, the lack of sleep — it can take a toll on your confidence and your mental health. Please remember:
You are not causing this.
You are not failing.
You are showing up for your baby in every possible way.
Take breaks when you can. Ask for help. Lower the bar. A clean kitchen can wait — your wellbeing matters more.
Final Thoughts
Silent reflux can be hard to spot and harder still to live with day-to-day. But with time, support, and a few simple adjustments, most babies begin to outgrow it — often by 6 to 12 months.
Until then, trust your instincts, find your rhythm, and know that this is a phase — not forever.
At Neutral Nest, we’re here to walk alongside you through these early challenges — with soft, soothing essentials and the kind of parenting support that reminds you: you’ve got this.