Baby Gas 101: 6 Signs + 6 Ways to Soothe It

If you’ve ever spent hours bouncing, rocking, or shushing a fussy baby who just won’t settle, you’ve probably whispered to yourself,

“Is it gas?”

You’re not alone.

Gas is one of the most common reasons for newborn fussiness and one of the most confusing.

After all, your baby can’t exactly tell you what’s wrong, and every cry can start to sound the same when you’re running on little sleep.

The good news? Gassiness is completely normal and usually just means your baby’s digestive system is still figuring things out. The even better news is that there are many, easy ways to help.

In this post, we’ll cover six common signs your baby might be gassy and six simple ways to bring them some relief, so you can both get back to calmer, happier moments together.

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6 Signs Your Baby Might Be Gassy

1. Fussiness During or After Feeding

This was a big one for my daughter. Gas bubbles can get trapped during feeding, making your baby uncomfortable and irritable; sometimes even causing them to stop eating or refuse to feed.

You might also notice them squirming, arching their back, or pulling off the bottle or breast suddenly.

And as frustrating as it is, the more they cry, the more air they swallow, which can make the problem worse. Some babies seem totally fine while eating but get upset shortly after. All of these can be signs that gas is causing discomfort.

2. Pulling Knees Toward the Chest

Babies often instinctively curl up into a little ball when their tummies hurt.

If you see your baby pulling their knees up toward their chest or tucking in their legs, it may be their way of easing pressure in their belly.

This is one of the clearest body-language clues that gas could be the culprit.

Sometimes you’ll even see them stretch out, then curl back up again, almost like they’re trying to help the bubbles move through.

3. A Firm or Bloated Tummy

Just like adults, babies can get that full, tight, bloated feeling when gas builds up.

If your baby’s belly feels unusually firm or looks round and swollen, gas may be to blame.

You can gently check by placing your hand on their tummy. If it feels tight or tense, try rubbing in small, gentle circles to help move trapped air.

Sometimes that light pressure is all it takes to give them a little relief.

4. Trouble Sleeping or Suddenly Waking Up

Gas discomfort can make it tough for your baby to fall, or stay, asleep. You might notice them squirming, grunting, or waking up crying not long after dozing off.

Of course, it’s hard to tell at first what’s “normal” newborn sleep versus discomfort, especially in those early weeks. But if your baby seems restless, pulls their legs up, or cries out mid-sleep, trapped gas could be the reason.

Try keeping a log of when it happens. Sometimes patterns around feeding times can help you pinpoint if gas might be related.

5. Grunting, Arching, or a Red Face

Newborns often make all kinds of funny sounds and expressions, but when it comes to gas, you’ll notice effort behind it.

They may grunt, strain, or turn red in the face as they try to push the air out.

Some babies arch their backs, stiffen their legs, or wriggle as if trying to find a comfortable position.

Remember, your baby’s digestive system is still learning how to work. All these movements are their way of figuring things out (and they’ll get better at it soon).

6. Frequent Burping, Spitting Up, or Farting

Burping and tooting are completely normal for babies, but if you notice an increase, especially alongside fussiness, gas could be behind it.

You might hear extra burps during feeds, see more frequent spit-ups, or notice that your baby is passing gas a lot.

Some gas is expected, but when it’s constant or seems to cause discomfort, they may just need a little help moving things along. If you are uncertain, you can always bring it up to your baby's doctor.

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6 Ways to Help a Gassy Baby

Now that you’ve spotted the signs, here are a few gentle, tried-and-true ways to bring your baby some relief.

1. Try Gentle Tummy Massage

Using light, circular motions, rub your baby’s belly in a clockwise direction (that’s the natural way gas moves through the intestines).

You can do this a few times a day or whenever they seem uncomfortable.

Even just a minute or two can help loosen gas bubbles and make it easier for your baby to pass them.

You can also gently place your hand on their tummy for warmth. Sometimes that soothing pressure alone can make a difference.

2. Use the “Bicycle Legs” Trick

Lay your baby on their back on a soft, flat surface (like a play mat or bed) and gently move their legs in a pedaling motion, like they’re riding a little bike.

This helps stimulate digestion and move trapped air through their system.

You can also try bending both knees together and slowly bringing them toward their chest, then extending again.

You can even alternate between the two movements and keep your motions slow, gentle, and calm.

3. Practice Frequent Burping

This one’s huge, and it can help prevent gas from building up in the first place. Try burping your baby not just after feedings, but also midway through.

If you’re breastfeeding, you might burp between sides. If you’re bottle-feeding, burp every few minutes or after every ounce or two, depending on your baby’s needs.

Some babies need more frequent breaks than others, so watch for signs of slowing down, squirming, or unlatching. Those are good moments to pause and help them burp before continuing.

And if one burping position doesn’t work (over-the-shoulder, sitting up, or laying across your lap), experiment with a few because every baby is different.

4. Adjust Feeding Techniques

Feeding technique can make a big difference in how much air your baby swallows.

If you’re breastfeeding, check that your baby’s latch feels deep and comfortable. If you’re unsure of your positioning or you feel like your baby is not latching well, a lactation consultant can help you to trouble shoot and give suggestions for what might work.

If you’re bottle-feeding, try using a slow-flow nipple (especially in the early weeks) and hold the bottle at a slight angle so the nipple stays full of milk. That way, less air gets in as they drink.

There are also special anti-colic bottles designed to reduce air intake, which can be a lifesaver for extra-gassy babies.

5. Try a Warm Bath or Tummy Time

A warm bath can work wonders for a gassy baby.

The warmth helps relax their abdominal muscles, which can ease discomfort and sometimes help release trapped gas naturally.

Bonus: many babies tend to poop right after (or during) a warm bath. You’ve been warned!

Tummy time is another gentle way to help move those stubborn bubbles out. Laying your baby on their tummy gives slight pressure on their belly, which can encourage digestion and gas movement.

Plus, it strengthens their neck and shoulders at the same time.

Even a few minutes of supervised tummy time after a feeding (once they’ve been burped) can make a big difference.

6. Look Into Gas Drops or Probiotics

If gas seems to be a frequent issue, talk to your pediatrician about over-the-counter options like infant gas drops (simethicone) or probiotics.

These can sometimes help relieve symptoms or support digestion, but it’s always best to get your doctor’s input first.

If you’re breastfeeding, your doctor might suggest paying attention to what you eat. Sometimes certain foods (like dairy or caffeine) can make babies gassier, though this varies widely. If you’re formula feeding, they may recommend trying a different formula or bottle to see if that eases discomfort.

Every baby’s system is unique, so finding what works can take a little trial and error, but your pediatrician can guide you in the right direction.

Bonus Tip: Stay Calm (Even When It’s Hard)

I know firsthand how exhausting it can be to hear your baby cry and not know what they need. Gas-related fussiness can feel endless, and sometimes you just need a break.

But remember, babies can pick up on your energy. Staying calm (as much as possible) helps both of you.

Try comforting touches:

• Holding them close

• Walking them upright against your chest

• Softly humming or singing, or swaying gently

If nothing seems to work right away, take a breath. It doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong; it just means your baby’s tiny digestive system is still finding its rhythm. You’re learning together.

When to Talk to the Pediatrician

Gas is incredibly common in newborns, but if you’ve tried several remedies and your baby still seems in pain, cries excessively, or isn’t feeding or sleeping well, it’s always worth checking in with their doctor.

Sometimes persistent gas can be a sign of reflux, a milk protein sensitivity, or another underlying issue.

Your pediatrician can help rule those out and give you peace of mind.

Let's Wrap This Up!

Gas happens to every baby at some point, and while it can make those early weeks feel long, it doesn’t last forever. Your baby’s digestive system matures quickly, and soon this will be just another one of those newborn hurdles you got through together.

✔️Be patient

✔️Don't get stuck using the same soothing technique every time. Try different things or a combination of ideas to see what works.

✔️Get help if you need it

Remember: Trust your instincts; you know your baby best.

 ✨You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Join my course Surviving the First Year, a step-by-step guide designed for new moms who want real-life tips, emotional support, and calm confidence through the first year of motherhood.

👇 Click here to enroll and feel confident that you’re giving your baby (and yourself) the best possible start.

I want all the help!