The most important thing to remember is coping with reflux is 'managing reflux'. This means not letting it get the better of you or your baby! I used to imagine the reflux was a big bottle of bubbling liquid waiting for any opportunity to spill out all over me. This way I could easily see in my mind what things were going to 'bubble it over' - too much liquid too soon, lying flat, being jiggled around etc...

Positioning with Feeds
Keeping the baby upright during and for at least 30 mins after a feed can help to reduce reflux by allowing gravity to work at holding the feed down. Aim to keep as motionless as possible using the after feed time as quiet time. Gentle movements, perhaps being worn in a sling or being pushed in a buggy may work well, as long as an inclined position is observed. Formula fed babies may require longer periods of settling, since formula is digested slower than breastmilk.

Sitting & Sleeping
For a comfortable seated position, we love the Cumfy Reflux Support and for sleeping positions look to use a wedge to maintain a consistent raised position. It is highly recommended that all babies sleep on their back because it has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS. For reflux babies, it%u2019s a question of weighing up what works for you and baby.

As long as a baby is elevated, they should be more settled on their back and we would recommend this strongly. It is not advised to place a baby face down on any foam or bedding product without seeking advice first from a health professional.

Car Journeys
Most car seats and travel systems have a deep %u2018well%u2019 for one static seated position with baby slumped in an uncomfortable position. When baby slumps and slouches over like this added pressure is placed on their tummy and the baby will feel the pain of rising acid. This pressure can be very painful and can increase reflux episodes. We often found car journeys would promote more sickness than days when we had stayed at home.

Look for a car seat that allows multiple positions of recline/incline for baby to be inclined enough that they are fairly upright. Car seats have a range of options nowadays and incline seems pretty standard. You can use a booster cushion which will help with not just the car seat but also, buggy, swing, high-chair etc. The extra padding gives just enough support to the mid section to promote comfort and in some cases has reported to actually reduce vomiting.

Carrying
Try carrying baby around as much as possible in a baby carrier throughout the day. Carried babies tend to cry less and crying will make reflux worse, plus, it keeps baby upright. Try looking at baby slings or wraps. We recommend the Baby Sense Sling, there are also many different ways of carrying or wearing a baby. Decide what works for you and baby.

Clothing
Avoid tight clothing, particularly clothing that is tight around your baby%u2019s tummy, can make reflux worse by increasing pressure on the lower oesophageal sphincter. Make sure baby stays in loose fitting, elastic waists whenever possible. Also ensure that nappies are not tight around the tummy and if it suits, buy bigger for comfort.