Newborn Breathing: What is Normal & What Is Not

All newborn babies breathe faster than other children. Normal newborn breathing patterns typically are between 40-60 breaths per minute. Some babies have periodic breathing characterized by breathing fast and then slowing down for about 10 seconds. Dr. Katherine Rivera-Spoljaric, Pulmonologist at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, describes newborn breathing and explains what is normal and what is not. Talk to your pediatrician immediately if your baby is breathing more than 60 breaths per minute, wheezing, whistling, or grunting while breathing, has discoloration on their skin/lips, and showing any signs of discomfort such as retractions by their windpipe or belly.