Why Does My 2-Week-Old Baby Keep Gagging?

As a new parent, it’s perfectly normal to worry when your baby exhibits unusual behaviors, such as gagging.
While gagging can be startling, it’s important to understand that it’s a common occurrence in infants and, in most
cases, it’s not a cause for concern.

Causes of Gagging in 2-Week-Old Babies

Immature Reflexes: Newborns have immature gag reflexes, which can cause them to gag on saliva,
breast milk, or formula.
Overfeeding: Feeding your baby too much or too quickly can trigger the gag reflex.
Gas and Spit-Up: When babies have gas or spit up, they may regurgitate some liquid, which can
activate the gag reflex.
Teething: As babies’ teeth start to develop, they may experience some discomfort and increased saliva
production, which can lead to gagging.
Choking: Although less common, choking can be a life-threatening emergency. If your baby is gagging on
a solid object, seek medical attention immediately.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most cases of gagging in 2-week-old babies are not serious, there are some situations when you should seek medical
attention:

If your baby is gagging frequently or for an extended period of time.
If gagging is accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, fever, or vomiting.
If your baby is coughing up blood or green vomit.
If your baby refuses to feed or has difficulty swallowing.
If you suspect your baby may be choking on a foreign object.