Grunting in babies is characterized by short, guttural noises that indicate strain, especially when they are trying to pass stool. Babies may grunt to relieve tension, express their irritation or frustration, or gain their parents’ attention. Babies may also grunt when they try to adjust to changes in feeding. However, in most cases, grunting is a sign that the baby is adjusting to passing stools (1). Grunting in babies is common, but it may be a sign of an underlying problem in some cases. Read this post to learn more about the causes of grunting in babies, ways to interpret grunting sounds, and ways to manage grunting in babies.
Is Grunting Normal In Babies?
Towards the end of the first year, grunting could be used as a means of communication (2). It is informally known as grunting baby syndrome (GBS), which is relatively normal in babies. It could also be an indication of your baby learning to have a bowel movement. However, in some cases, the sound could be a symptom of an underlying health problem warranting medical attention. In newborns, grunting may need attention. A recent research study involving 453 babies suggested that all the term and near-term newborns with persistent grunting after birth should be carefully observed and treated if required (3).
What Are The Causes Of Baby Grunting?
While the primary reason for grunting in babies is to aid bowel movements, there are a few other causes for newborn grunting. Let us look at each in detail. Dr. Christina Johns, MD, MEd, FAAP, a Maryland-based pediatrician says, “Grunting that results in a successful bowel movement does not mean that a baby is constipated. When a baby is straining, turning red without resultant production of a bowel movement that can be a sign of constipation.” Newborns may also grunt:
To develop control over their breathing patterns. When the mucus is trapped in their nasal passage. During acid reflux, as it causes discomfort. All night, probably because of a dream, gas or a bowel movement.
Baby grunting is mostly normal. If there are no serious signs, but you are concerned about your baby’s grunting, you could try a few home remedies after seeking the doctor’s opinion.
Home Remedies For Grunting
Here are a few tips you can try at home to reduce the baby’s grunting.
Leaning back: As soon as your baby latches, try to lean back so that the baby’s head and throat are higher than the nipple. Or lie to one side so that the excess milk will dribble out of their mouth. Unlatching the baby: Mothers can usually feel the flow of milk from their ducts. So, if you feel there is going to be a major meltdown, let the baby have some foremilk, unlatch the baby and let the excess milk flow. Once the flow normalizes, you can continue feeding the hindmilk. Feeding on one breast: Let the baby feed on one breast for one or two sessions, allowing the breasts to stay full for a while. This signals the body to reduce breastmilk production.
When To Be Concerned About Baby Grunting?
As long as your baby is happy, healthy, and active, you need not worry about it. However, grunting with every breath is not normal, especially if grunting comes with symptoms like shortness of breath or red or blue discoloration of the face when you must consult a pediatrician. Here are some more instances where a baby’s grunting may not be normal.
Rapid or irregular breathing Flaring nostrils Cyanosis (blue coloration of the skin) Coughing or wheezing
When grunting is associated with any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it is best to consult your doctor. Illustration: MomJunction Design Team Babies may usually start grunting during the initial months of life, and it continues for about a few weeks after that.
