How to help my newborn straining when he eats?

[JackieBrown63]

Hi mums! I have a 3 week old newborn who I am currently breastfeeding. This past week he has been straining and looking very uncomfortable during and after feeds. My midwife said its normal and hes just learning to poop but he wakes up constantly in the night and wont settle when i feed him. Were both so tired from it. Instead of a nice milk-drunk baby, it seems to send him loopy. Arching his back, urging and turning red. If anyone has any advice it would be so appreciated 💗

Does he eventually poo and then settle? If not, I'd have a look at the symptoms of reflux and/or silent reflux, and see if they seem to fit. He might be unsettled because he's bringing up stomach acid and it hurts.

If he does seem to feel better after doing a poo, moving his legs like he's riding a bicycle or rubbing his tummy in a clockwise motion can sometimes help.

Thank you for your answer. I think he does feel better after he poos however ive tried massaging his tummy and doing bicycle legs and it only seems to upset him more :(. I also looked into reflux and keep him upright for up to an hour after feeds but makes no difference as soon as hes on his back he starts straining again :(. I hate seeing my baby like this!