Article

Spitting up or vomiting: learning to tell calmly

Guidance on what can be normal in small babies – and when to seek advice.

Newborn2026-05-151 min read

Many babies spit up – this is usually normal, but it often feels alarming.

Often looks fairly harmless

  • Small amounts during or shortly after feeding.
  • The baby seems content, is gaining weight and is active.
  • It happens several times a day, but not forcefully.

Pay attention

  • Forceful, projectile vomiting, repeatedly one after another.
  • Greenish or bloody vomit.
  • A listless impression, fewer wet nappies, fever, persistent crying.

What you can do

  • If you're unsure or see warning signs: call your paediatrician or the non-emergency medical on-call service (in Germany, 116117).
  • In an emergency, 112.

Trust your gut feeling – asking is always the right thing to do.