Increased drooling in a two-month-old infant is a common and normal part of early development. Understanding this developmental stage helps parents recognize it as a natural part of an infant’s growth. This temporary increase in saliva production is an expected developmental occurrence.
Why Two-Month-Olds Drool
Infants begin to drool more around two months due to physiological and developmental changes. Their salivary glands mature and become more active, significantly increasing saliva production. This surge in saliva often exceeds the baby’s ability to manage it, leading to visible drooling.
A developing swallowing reflex also plays a significant role. While a newborn’s swallowing reflex is primarily for feeding, it is not yet fully coordinated for managing excess saliva. Infants are still learning to coordinate their mouth and throat muscles to swallow the increased volume of saliva. This coordination improves as they grow and their oral motor skills refine.
Oral exploration further stimulates saliva production. Around two months, babies begin to discover their hands and bring them to their mouths. Mouthing hands, fingers, and later, safe, age-appropriate toys, stimulates the salivary glands.
This increased drooling at two months is a developmental milestone, not an indication of teething. While drooling is commonly associated with teething, teeth typically do not emerge until around six months or later. The drooling observed in two-month-olds is primarily a result of developing oral motor skills and increased saliva production.
What to Do About Drooling
Managing increased drooling involves steps to maintain comfort and prevent skin irritation. Regularly wiping away excess drool from the baby’s chin and neck helps keep the skin dry. This practice reduces the likelihood of developing a drool rash. Use a soft cloth or a specialized drool wipe.
Employing soft, absorbent bibs protects the baby’s clothing. Bibs help keep the baby drier. Choose bibs made from breathable fabrics to enhance comfort and minimize skin irritation. Change bibs frequently once they become damp.
Providing safe items for oral exploration is beneficial. A clean, age-appropriate teether or pacifier offers a safe outlet for mouthing. Ensure any objects a baby puts in their mouth are clean to prevent germ introduction. Regular cleaning of toys and hands is advisable.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While drooling is normal, certain signs warrant contacting a pediatrician. If excessive drooling is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as a fever, difficulty breathing, or noticeable trouble swallowing, seek medical advice. A baby who consistently refuses to eat or shows unusual fussiness and lethargy alongside drooling should be evaluated.
Consistent choking or gagging on saliva is a reason to consult a healthcare provider. Frequent or severe instances might indicate an underlying issue with swallowing coordination. A sudden and significant increase in drooling, particularly if the infant was not drooling much beforehand, is also a cause for concern.
Persistent skin irritation, such as a severe or widespread drool rash that does not improve with regular wiping and care, warrants medical attention. This may suggest a need for different skin care strategies or rule out other conditions. If concerned about your baby’s drooling, contact your pediatrician for advice.