HealthInfo Canterbury

Spilling, reflux, & GORD in babies

The term reflux (also called gastro-oesophageal reflux or GOR) is just another name for spilling. This is when the baby's stomach contents pass up into the gullet (oesophagus) and into their mouth. Spilling is quite normal in babies, and is different to vomiting, when the baby empties their stomach forcefully.

GORD (gastro-oesophageal reflux disease) is when a baby has reflux or spilling, but also is not growing, feeding, or sleeping well.

Call your general practice if you need medical advice.

Telephone advice helpline

• PlunketLine 0800‑933‑922 – for child health and parenting questions.

  This service is free to all callers from New Zealand and available 24 hours.

Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by paediatric gastroenterologist, Child Health, Canterbury DHB. Last reviewed March 2017.

In this section When your baby has reflux or GORD Looking after a baby with spilling or GORD More information about spilling and GORD in babies

Page reference: 37753

Review key: HISPR-12789