How do I know if my tongue-tie is affecting my breastfeeding?

Understanding Tongue-Tie and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Tongue-tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual, which can restrict tongue movement. This condition can significantly affect breastfeeding, leading to a range of challenges for both mother and baby.
Identifying Symptoms of Tongue-Tie in Breastfeeding
If you suspect that tongue-tie might be affecting your breastfeeding experience, there are several key symptoms to look out for. One of the most common indicators is difficulty achieving a proper latch. A baby with tongue-tie may struggle to grasp the nipple effectively, which can lead to inefficient milk extraction. This inefficiency not only affects the baby’s ability to feed adequately but can also result in maternal nipple pain due to improper positioning and friction during feeding.
Mothers may also notice that their baby is unable to extend their tongue beyond the gums, which can manifest as a flat or square tongue tip rather than a pointed one when the tongue is extended. This limited movement can hinder the baby’s ability to suck effectively, leading to frustration during feeding sessions.
Consequences of Tongue-Tie on Feeding
The implications of tongue-tie extend beyond just the immediate feeding experience. Babies who cannot latch properly may experience poor weight gain and inadequate milk transfer, which can lead to concerns about their overall health and development. For mothers, the physical discomfort associated with breastfeeding can escalate, potentially resulting in nipple damage and even conditions like mastitis due to insufficient milk removal.
Moreover, while some babies with tongue-tie may manage to breastfeed well with the right positioning and support, many do not, highlighting the variability in how this condition affects individual cases.
Seeking Professional Guidance
If you are experiencing difficulties that you suspect may be related to tongue-tie, it is crucial to consult with a lactation consultant or a healthcare professional experienced in breastfeeding issues. They can conduct a thorough assessment of both your breastfeeding technique and your baby’s tongue mobility. This evaluation is essential to determine whether a release of the tongue-tie is necessary or if other factors might be contributing to the breastfeeding challenges.
In conclusion, recognizing the signs of tongue-tie and understanding its potential impact on breastfeeding can empower mothers to seek the appropriate support. By addressing these challenges early, mothers can enhance their breastfeeding experience and ensure their babies receive the nourishment they need for healthy growth and development.

How can I check my tongue-tie at home?

Examine the tongue or lip – Lay your baby down on your knees, facing you. Run your finger under their tongue. Does this membrane feel short, strong, or excessively thick? A normal tongue will allow for a smooth and uninterrupted swipe underneath the frenulum.

When is it too late to cut a tongue-tie?

It’s usually never too late to get tongue-tie surgery. However, the sooner tongue-tie is corrected, the fewer possible side effects this condition will likely cause you.

How to tell if tongue-tie is affecting breastfeeding?

Signs of a significant tongue-tie

1. nipple pain and damage.
2. a misshapen nipple after breastfeeding.
3. a compression/stripe mark on the nipple after breastfeeding.
4. the baby often loses suction on the breast whilst feeding.
5. a clicking sound may be heard while the baby is feeding.
6. poor weight gains.

How to breastfeed a baby with a tongue-tie?

If your baby retracts (pulls back) his tongue when he opens his mouth, try sliding his chin a little further from the nipple so he can feel the ‘fatter’ part of the breast with his tongue. Denting the breast at the edge of the areola with a finger and placing your baby’s chin in the dent may also help.

At what age should a tongue-tie be cut?

Many babies have their ties identified and treated after 6 weeks of age. When a baby is closer to 3-4+ months of age, they have been relying on compensation methods like horizontal tongue movement or compressions from the lower jaw for a sustained period of time.

What are the red flags of tongue-tie?

Other tongue-tie signs include:
Difficulty lifting the tongue to the roof of the mouth or moving the tongue side to side. Trouble sticking the tongue past the lower lip. A tongue that appears notched or heart-shaped when stuck out. Challenges making specific letter sounds such as “t,” “d,” “l” and “th”

How do you get a good latch after a tongue-tie?

whip finger away and encourage the latch that way. ✓ If you have any expressed milk, using a syringe ‘dropper’ the milk onto the breast whilst the baby is trying to latch, and if they come off again, drop milk into the corner of their mouth whilst they are suckling to encourage them to stay there.

How do you test if you are tongue-tied?

Signs of tongue-tie

1. The tongue can’t poke out past the lips.
2. The tongue tip can’t touch the roof of the mouth.
3. The tongue can’t be moved sideways to the corners of the mouth.
4. The tongue tip may look flat or square instead of pointy when extended.
5. The tongue tip may look notched or heart-shaped.

Does feeding get worse after tongue-tie release?

Changes in feeding patterns – Feeding patterns may change as babies are often less efficient after division initially due to low tongue tone and muscle fatigue. So, you may see a period of shorter and more frequent feeds. Breast compression can help with this.

What are the best nipples for a baby with a tongue-tie?

Nipple Shape: Look for a nipple that closely mimics the shape of a breast to facilitate a more natural feeding experience. Nipples with a wider base or those designed to encourage a wide latch can be particularly helpful for babies with tongue tie. Our breastfriend teats are ideal for babies with tongue tie.