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How Should My Baby Be Breathing?

Published in Baby Breathing 2 mins read

Your baby should be breathing at a rate appropriate for their age, with a normal rhythm and effort. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

Normal Breathing Rates

A baby's breathing rate changes as they grow. Here's a table summarizing typical rates:

Age Breaths per Minute
Newborn 30 to 60
Newborn (Sleep) 30 to 40
6 Months 25 to 40
  • Newborns: Expect your newborn to breathe quite rapidly, typically between 30 and 60 breaths per minute. This can sometimes sound irregular, with pauses and faster periods.
  • Sleeping Newborns: When your newborn is sleeping, their breathing should slow down slightly to about 30 to 40 breaths per minute.
  • 6 Months Old: As your baby gets older, their breathing rate will decrease, with a normal range of 25 to 40 breaths per minute around 6 months. For comparison, adults take about 12 to 20 breaths per minute.

What to Observe

Besides the rate, observe these key aspects of your baby's breathing:

  • Rhythm: Breathing should have a relatively regular pattern, even if slight variations are normal.
  • Effort: Breathing should not be labored. You should not see:
    • Flaring nostrils.
    • Excessive chest or belly movement.
    • Grunting sounds with each breath.
    • Skin pulling in between the ribs or above the collarbone when they breathe.
  • Sound: A healthy breath should be relatively quiet. You shouldn't hear:
    • Wheezing.
    • Rattling.
    • High-pitched sounds.

When to Be Concerned

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you observe any of the following signs:

  • Rapid Breathing: If your newborn is breathing faster than 60 breaths per minute consistently, or is breathing too slowly.
  • Labored Breathing: If there is significant effort in breathing.
  • Color Changes: Bluish color around the mouth or face.
  • Pauses in Breathing: Long pauses (more than 20 seconds) between breaths.
  • Changes in Sound: Wheezing, rattling, or grunting with breathing.
  • Fever: A temperature above 100.4° F (38° C) in a newborn less than 3 months old.

Key Takeaways

  • Your baby's breathing rate should be within the normal ranges for their age.
  • Pay attention to the rhythm, effort, and sound of their breaths.
  • Seek medical advice if you have any concerns about your baby's breathing.