Which of the following is FALSE regarding regurgitation in infants?

• A. Regurgitation is associated with delayed gastric emptying
• B. Regurgitation in neonates is related to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter
• C. Regurgitation is usually transient and will resolve around 7-12 months of age
• D. Regurgitation is rare in infants

Answer: (D)

Infant regurgitation is a common, usually benign reflux that comes from an immature gastroesophageal barrier. The lower esophageal sphincter in newborns isn’t fully mature, so transient relaxations of the LES allow small amounts of gastric contents to move back into the esophagus after feeds. This regurgitation is typically postprandial and effortless, and healthy infants often grow well.

Because the LES matures and feeding patterns normalize over the first months of life, regurgitation commonly resolves by around 7 to 12 months of age. That makes the statement that regurgitation is rare in infants inaccurate—it's quite common during this period.

If regurgitation is accompanied by poor weight gain, feeding intolerance, projectile vomiting, hematemesis, or respiratory symptoms, further evaluation for GERD or other pathology is warranted.