How to improve latch after frenectomy?

Understanding the Importance of Latch After Frenectomy
A frenectomy, a procedure that releases the restrictive tissue (frenulum) in the mouth, is often performed to address issues related to tongue-tie or lip-tie, which can significantly impact breastfeeding. While many parents report improvements in breastfeeding comfort and effectiveness post-procedure, achieving a proper latch remains a critical focus for successful feeding.
The Role of Practice and Support
After a frenectomy, many mothers find that they can breastfeed without pain, but they still need to practice to improve their baby’s latch. As one mother noted, “After a frenectomy, I was able to breastfeed pain free. Yes, we still needed practice. But now the practice was getting us somewhere”. This highlights the importance of ongoing support and guidance in the early days following the procedure.
Immediate Post-Procedure Care
Breastfeeding immediately after a frenectomy can be beneficial. It not only reassures the infant but also helps in the healing process. According to experts, breastfeeding right after the procedure does not interfere with healing and can provide comfort to the baby. This immediate engagement can help reinforce the new oral mechanics that the frenectomy aims to facilitate.
Seeking Professional Guidance
Consulting with an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is highly recommended for parents navigating breastfeeding challenges after a frenectomy. These professionals can provide tailored strategies to improve latch and overall breastfeeding success. They can also help identify any lingering issues that may not have been resolved by the frenectomy alone.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Despite the benefits of a frenectomy, some parents report ongoing difficulties with latching. For instance, a parent shared their experience on a forum, expressing concerns about their child’s latch post-frenectomy. This is not uncommon, as the transition to a proper latch can take time and patience.
To address these challenges, parents can employ several strategies:
– Positioning: Experimenting with different breastfeeding positions can help find one that allows for a better latch.
– Frequent Practice: Regular feeding sessions can help the baby adjust to the changes in their mouth and improve their latch over time.
– Gentle Guidance: Parents can gently guide the baby to latch correctly, ensuring that the baby’s mouth covers a good portion of the areola, not just the nipple.
The Importance of a Holistic Approach
Improving latch after a frenectomy is often not just about the procedure itself but involves a holistic approach that includes practice, support, and professional guidance. As noted by healthcare professionals, the journey to effective breastfeeding can be complex, and it often requires a team effort to navigate the challenges that arise.
In conclusion, while a frenectomy can significantly enhance breastfeeding experiences, achieving a proper latch is a process that benefits from continuous practice and support. Engaging with lactation consultants and being patient with the learning curve can lead to successful breastfeeding outcomes for both mother and child.

Why is my baby not latching after a frenectomy?

It’s actually quite common for babies not to want to nurse after a frenectomy because this requires them to move their tongue a lot vs on the bottle.

How long does it take for latch to improve after frenectomy?

In general, 1-5 days after a successful frenectomy should be the time at which the mother transfers milk to the baby more effectively than ever before, depending on if there was lactation support immediately after the procedure.

How to encourage a deeper latch?

These tips help you get a good latch—and know if you have one.

1. Tickle your baby’s lips with your nipple. This will help baby open their mouth wide.
2. Aim your nipple just above your baby’s top lip. Make sure your baby’s chin isn’t tucked into their chest.
3. Aim your baby’s lower lip away from the base of your nipple.

How can I improve my breastfeeding after frenectomy?

Allow your baby to suck on your finger or a pacifier while gently pulling it back. This tug-of-war motion strengthens the tongue muscles for more effective nursing. While your baby sucks on your finger, press gently on the palate, then turn your finger over and press down on the tongue.

How can I improve my poor latch?

Getting a good latch

1. Create a calm environment first. Recline on pillows or other comfortable area.
2. Hold your baby skin-to-skin. Hold your baby, wearing only a diaper, against your bare chest.
3. Let your baby lead.
4. Support your baby, but don’t force the latch.
5. Allow your breast to hang naturally.

Why is my baby’s latch worse after tongue tie division?

Occasionally a tongue tie that has been divided can grow back or reattach. Some babies can be very unsettled for a few hours or days after the procedure and these babies may find latching and suckling more difficult for a while before any improvement is noted.

How do you get a deeper latch after a tongue-tie revision?

A deeper latch
Denting the breast at the edge of the areola with a finger and placing your baby’s chin in the dent may also help. You could also try placing your thumb or finger near the base of the nipple where your baby’s upper lip will be.

Can babies gain weight with a shallow latch?

If a mother has an abundant supply, then sucking works just fine initially, and the baby will gain weight appropriately, even with a shallow latch.

How to get baby to latch deeper?

With your baby’s head tilted back and chin up, lift him or her to touch your nipple. The nipple should rest just above the baby’s upper lip. Wait for your baby to open very wide, then “scoop” the breast by placing the lower jaw on first. Now tip your baby’s head forward and place the upper jaw well behind your nipple.

Why is my baby’s latch worse after tongue-tie division?

Occasionally a tongue tie that has been divided can grow back or reattach. Some babies can be very unsettled for a few hours or days after the procedure and these babies may find latching and suckling more difficult for a while before any improvement is noted.