Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux (reflux) is the spontaneous passage of part or all of the stomach contents (comprising food and stomach acid) into the oesophagus. The child may experience symptoms such as regurgitation, posseting and projectile vomiting. Sometimes it doesn’t come all the way out of their mouths, and the child may not vomit at all. This is termed “silent reflux”.

It is important to remember not all vomiting or irritability is indicative of reflux. You should seek a medical opinion to find the cause of your infant or child's symptoms.

Community perceptions are generally that reflux is a common complaint that babies ‘get over’. While in most cases this is true, children can experience a wide range of symptoms, some quite severe, resulting in complications, and occasionally surgery. Symptoms of reflux, such as refusal to feed or prolonged bouts of screaming can be overwhelming. Unfortunately, reflux has been associated with child abuse and Shaken Baby Syndrome. Even when a baby is suffering from relatively uncomplicated reflux, families often need reassurance, and enjoy talking to someone who understands. For the families whose infants suffer complications, it is even more important that they can talk to other parents, and have the support and reassurance they need to get through this stressful experience.