Common Digestive Problems (That Aren’t Emergencies)

Most digestive issues in the first few months are uncomfortable but not dangerous. Here’s what parents commonly worry about—and why many of these signs don’t need a pediatric panic call (yet).

Gassiness is the most searched baby symptom—and for good reason. Tiny tummies fill with air fast, especially if:

• Baby swallows air while feeding or crying

• They're using a nipple that flows too fast or too slow

• Their gut is adjusting to new proteins or milk types

Bottle Tip: Nipple Size Matters

Not all bottle nipples are created equal—and using the wrong size can contribute to gas, reflux, or even overfeeding.

Age/Stage	Flow Rate	When to Use
Preemie/Newborn	Extra Slow (Size 0 or 1)	For newborns or preemies with weaker sucking reflexes
1–3 months	Slow (Size 1–2)	Most common for young babies; helps prevent gulping and gas
3–6+ months	Medium (Size 2–3)	For older babies or when feedings are taking too long
6+ months	Fast (Size 3–4)	For babies with strong suck reflexes and thicker feeds

Pro tip: If baby is coughing, gulping, or leaking milk while feeding, the flow might be too fast. If they’re falling asleep at the bottle or sucking forever, it might be too slow.

 Spit-Up vs. Reflux: What’s the Difference?

All babies spit up—it’s a badge of babyhood. But here’s how to tell when it’s normal vs. when reflux might be more than just a laundry problem:

Normal spit-up:

• Happens right after feeds, especially with movement

• Doesn’t seem to bother baby

• Baby continues to gain weight and thrive

Possible reflux signs:

• Arching or crying during/after feeds

• Frequent hiccups or gagging

• Poor weight gain or feeding refusal

Still, even mild reflux is incredibly common—and usually resolves on its own by 12 months.