Hiccups in Babies
Content reviewed against published AAP, NIH, AAP guidelines
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Hiccups are involuntary contractions (spasms) of the diaphragm followed by sudden closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic "hic" sound. Hiccups are extremely common in newborns and young infants — many babies hiccup multiple times a day, and hiccups are even observed in utero. They are almost always harmless and self-limiting, typically lasting a few minutes to 20 minutes. Hiccups do not cause babies pain or distress (though parents are often more bothered than the baby). They become less frequent as babies grow and their nervous system matures.
Key takeaways
- Hiccups are involuntary contractions (spasms) of the diaphragm followed by sudden closure of the vocal cords, producing the characteristic "hic" sound.
- Most common cause: Normal diaphragmatic irritation from feeding (full stomach)
- Emergency: Hiccups causing significant breathing difficulty or cyanosis (extremely rare)
- Home care: Most hiccups resolve on their own within 5-20 minutes — waiting is appropriate
Possible Causes
When to Seek Help
Emergency — Call 911 or go to ER:
- Hiccups causing significant breathing difficulty or cyanosis (extremely rare)
- Hiccups in context of altered consciousness or seizure-like activity
Urgent — See doctor today:
- Persistent hiccups lasting more than 48 hours continuously
- Hiccups preventing all feeding with signs of dehydration
Same-day appointment:
- Frequent hiccup episodes associated with significant reflux symptoms needing treatment
- Hiccups lasting many hours causing parental concern
Monitor at home:
- Normal newborn hiccups lasting minutes to 20 minutes — no treatment needed
- Hiccups after feeds that resolve on their own
- Occasional hiccup bouts in a well, thriving baby
By Age
0-3 months
Normal: Newborns hiccup very frequently — several times a day is completely normal. Hiccups during and after feeds are expected. Many newborns hiccup in their sleep without waking.
Worry if: Hiccups lasting more than 48 hours continuously (extremely rare in infants). Hiccups interfering with feeding or breathing (baby turns blue or chokes during hiccups). Hiccups associated with significant reflux causing distress and weight loss.
3-6 months
Normal: Hiccups become less frequent but still occur regularly after feeds. Baby is not distressed by hiccups.
Worry if: Hiccups that consistently cause vomiting. Hiccups that are increasing in frequency rather than decreasing with age.
6-12 months
Normal: Hiccups continue to decrease in frequency. Occasional bouts after meals or excitement are normal.
Worry if: Persistent hiccups (lasting hours) are unusual at this age and may warrant evaluation.
1-3 years
Normal: Occasional hiccups are normal, similar to adults. Triggered by eating fast, carbonated drinks (for older toddlers), or excitement.
Worry if: Intractable hiccups lasting more than 48 hours (very rare in children — may indicate underlying neurological or GI cause).
Home Care
- Most hiccups resolve on their own within 5-20 minutes — waiting is appropriate
- Burp baby mid-feed and after feeding to reduce air in stomach
- Feed smaller amounts more frequently if hiccups consistently follow large feeds
- Allow baby to suck on pacifier — non-nutritive sucking may help relax the diaphragm
- Ensure proper latch (breast) or nipple flow rate (bottle) to reduce air swallowing
- Gently rubbing baby's back or changing position may help
- Feeding baby in a more upright position can reduce post-feed hiccups
- Do NOT try adult hiccup cures on babies (startling, breath-holding, sugar under tongue for babies under 12 months)
- Do NOT restrict feeding because of hiccups — baby can safely nurse or bottle-feed during hiccups
- If hiccups start during a feed, pause and burp before continuing
Frequently asked questions
What causes hiccups?
When is this an emergency?
What can I do at home?
When should I call the doctor?
Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Symptoms
Bottom line
Most cases of hiccups in babies are not emergencies. However, seek immediate care if hiccups causing significant breathing difficulty or cyanosis (extremely rare).
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.