# Why does my newborn hiccup so much, and should I worry? | Clever Mum

> Newborn hiccups are extremely common and harmless — caused by an immature diaphragm and often triggered by feeding, swallowed air or a sudden temperature

*   [ Home ](/) 
*  › [ Mum Answers ](/answers) 
*  ›  Why does my newborn hiccup so much, and should I worry?  
 
   
Newborn & Baby

 
#  Why does my newborn hiccup so much, and should I worry? 

    
 
Quick answer — Why does my newborn hiccup so much, and should I worry? 

 
Newborn hiccups are extremely common and harmless — caused by an immature diaphragm and often triggered by feeding, swallowed air or a sudden temperature change. They usually stop on their own within 5–10 minutes and don't bother most babies even when they seem dramatic. You don't need to intervene; a short pause in feeding and an upright cuddle can help if they seem to bother your baby.

   
## Why babies hiccup more than adults

The diaphragm — the muscle that controls breathing — is still maturing in the first months, and small triggers like a fast feed, swallowed air or breathing in cooler air can set off a spasm. Hiccups were even happening before birth for many babies, picked up on scans.

## What to do (usually nothing)

Most babies aren't bothered by their own hiccups, even when they look and sound dramatic to parents. If they happen mid-feed, pausing for a burp and holding baby upright for a few minutes often helps them pass. There's no need for water, sugar or the "cures" sometimes suggested for adults — none of these apply to babies and some (like giving water) aren't appropriate for young infants.

## When to mention it

Hiccups alone are never a reason to worry. Mention it to your health visitor only if they seem to happen alongside choking, gagging or real distress at feeds, which points to something else (like reflux) worth a separate look.

   
## 
More Newborn & Baby questions

 
 *  [How often should I bathe a newborn?](/answers/how-often-bathe-newborn/) 
*  [When can I take my newborn outside?](/answers/when-can-baby-go-outside/) 
*  [How many nappies does a newborn use a day?](/answers/how-many-nappies-newborn/) 
*  [When do babies start smiling?](/answers/when-do-babies-smile/) 
*  [How do I look after my newborn's umbilical cord stump?](/answers/how-to-care-for-umbilical-cord-stump/) 
 
 
 [Browse every question we answer →](/answers/) 

  

Health answers describe NHS guidance and are not medical advice — for anything urgent, call
      111 (or 999 in an emergency). Spotted something out of date? Email
[editors@clevermum.co.uk](mailto:editors@clevermum.co.uk).