Reflux and Regurgitation

Regurgitation, also known as possetting or spitting-up is the back-flow of milk from the stomach into the mouth, which is often ‘spat out’ or “dribbles out” of the mouth. Regurgitation is not the same as vomiting, which is when milk is forced out of the baby’s stomach. Baby reflux and regurgitation symptoms are common and generally resolve by 12 months of age.

Reflux and Regurgitation & CMPA

Why does my baby have reflux or regurgitation?

Occasionally, baby reflux and regurgitation can be caused by a food allergy such as Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA). Having an immature digestive tract, lying flat most of the time and taking an almost entirely liquid diet can also contribute to baby reflux and regurgitation.

Reflux

Reflux is the involuntary regurgitation or “brining up” of gastric contents after feeding and occurs in about 20-25% of healthy infants. Although it can be worrying for parents, it usually resolves by the age of 1 year and usually does not need investigation or specific treatment.

Children with reflux disease also called gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GORD are more likely to have a food allergy (up to 50%).

Could my baby have Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy?

Reflux and regurgitation can be symptoms of CMPA. However, babies with CMPA usually experience more than just one symptom and these symptoms can be very different from one baby to the next (Link to Symptoms). Therefore it is always best to discuss it with your baby’s healthcare provider. They will look at the symptoms in detail and often use a symptom scoring system to decide if it is related to CMPA.

What to Do Next?

If you are worried that your baby has symptoms related to cow's milk, you should seek advice from your healthcare provider. Whilst you are preparing to visit your healthcare provider, it can be a good idea to record your baby's symptoms over a few days before the visit.