Newborn hiccups are one of those tiny baby quirks that can surprise new parents. One moment your baby is calm, and the next — hic — hic — hic — rhythmic little spasms take over. While hiccups may seem uncomfortable, they’re usually harmless and very common in newborns.
In this guide, we’ll explain what causes hiccups in newborns, how to stop them safely, when they might be a concern, and what you can do to prevent them in the future.
What Are Newborn Hiccups?
Newborn hiccups occur when the diaphragm — the muscle that helps with breathing — suddenly contracts, causing the vocal cords to close and make the familiar “hic” sound. Because babies’ nervous systems are still developing, hiccups in newborns happen more frequently than in adults.
The good news? Most babies aren’t bothered by them at all.
What Causes Newborn Hiccups?
There are several common reasons newborn hiccups happen, especially in the early weeks.
1. Feeding Too Quickly
Fast feeding can cause babies to swallow air, which can irritate the diaphragm and trigger newborn hiccups.
2. Overfeeding
A very full stomach can press against the diaphragm, making hiccups in newborns more likely.
3. Swallowing Air During Feeding
Air intake during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can contribute to newborn hiccups, especially if the latch or nipple flow isn’t ideal.
4. Temperature Changes
Sudden temperature shifts, such as moving from a warm room to cooler air, may sometimes trigger newborn hiccups.
Are Newborn Hiccups Normal?
Yes — newborn hiccups are completely normal and extremely common. Many babies experience hiccups daily, especially after feeds. In most cases, they stop on their own within a few minutes and don’t cause any distress.
If your baby is feeding well, sleeping normally, and gaining weight, hiccups in newborns are usually nothing to worry about.
How to Stop Newborn Hiccups Safely
There’s no need for drastic measures — gentle techniques work best. Here are safe and effective ways to relieve newborn hiccups:
1. Burp Your Baby
Burping helps release trapped air, which often triggers hiccups in newborns. Try burping your baby halfway through feeds and again afterward.
👉 You may find our guide on how to burp a newborn helpful for step-by-step positions.
2. Hold Baby Upright
Keeping your baby upright for 15–20 minutes after feeding allows gravity to help settle the stomach and reduce hiccups.
3. Offer a Feeding Break
Sometimes a short pause from feeding can calm the diaphragm and stop hiccups in newborns naturally.
4. Try Gentle Tummy Massage
A soft clockwise massage on your baby’s tummy can relax abdominal muscles and ease hiccups.
5. Keep Feeding Calm and Slow
Slower feeds reduce air intake, helping prevent both newborn hiccups and gas discomfort.
👉 If your baby also seems gassy, our article on newborn gas relief explains simple ways to ease digestion.
What Not to Do
Avoid old home remedies like:
❌ Pulling the tongue
❌ Giving water
❌ Startling your baby
These are unsafe and unnecessary. Hiccups in newborns almost always resolve on their own with gentle care.
When Should You Worry About Newborn Hiccups?
In rare cases, hiccups may signal something more serious. Contact your pediatrician if:
- Hiccups last longer than 30 minutes regularly
- Your baby seems distressed or uncomfortable
- Feeding is difficult or painful
- Vomiting is frequent or forceful
- Weight gain is poor
Persistent newborn hiccups combined with feeding issues could sometimes indicate reflux or other digestive concerns.
Can Hiccups In Newborns Affect Sleep?
Most babies sleep right through hiccups. If hiccups happen during bedtime feeds, holding your baby upright and burping well before laying them down can reduce disruptions.
If your baby often cries during hiccups, our guide on newborn crying: what’s normal and how to soothe your baby may be helpful.
How Long Do Hiccups In Newborns Last?
Most episodes of newborn hiccups last just a few minutes, though some may continue for 10–15 minutes. As your baby’s nervous system matures, hiccups usually become less frequent — often by 3 to 4 months of age.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, hiccups in newborns are common and usually harmless.
Can Newborn Hiccups Be Prevented?
While you can’t always prevent them completely, these steps help reduce frequency:
✔ Burp during and after feeds
✔ Feed slowly
✔ Avoid overfeeding
✔ Keep baby upright after feeding
✔ Ensure proper latch or bottle flow
These habits not only reduce hiccups in newborns but also help prevent gas and reflux discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Newborn hiccups may look uncomfortable, but they’re usually harmless and temporary. With gentle feeding techniques, proper burping, and a little patience, most hiccup episodes resolve quickly. If something feels off or your baby seems distressed, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician.
You’re doing an amazing job caring for your little one 🌱
🔒 Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for concerns about your baby’s health.
Hi, I’m Asif Shaikh, a new parent to my son Ashar, born in December 2025. Through NurtureThrive, I share practical parenting tips, honest product recommendations, and real-life experiences to help new parents make confident decisions for their babies.
All content is based on personal experience, thorough research, and a focus on safety and simplicity. My goal is to make parenting a little easier by providing clear, reliable, and genuinely helpful information.
Note: The information shared is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.