How to tell if tongue-tie is affecting breastfeeding?

Understanding Tongue-Tie and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Tongue-tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, is a condition where the frenulum—the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is unusually tight or short. This can significantly affect a baby’s ability to breastfeed effectively, leading to a range of challenges for both the infant and the mother.
Identifying the Symptoms
One of the primary indicators that tongue-tie may be affecting breastfeeding is difficulty with latching. Babies with this condition often struggle to achieve a proper latch, which is crucial for effective feeding. Signs of a poor latch include the baby not being able to grasp the nipple adequately, leading to inefficient milk extraction. This can result in nipple pain and trauma for the mother, as the baby may suck in a way that causes discomfort.
In addition to latch issues, mothers may notice that their baby is not transferring milk well. This can manifest as poor weight gain in the infant, as they may not be getting enough milk during feedings. Over time, this can also lead to a decrease in the mother’s milk supply, as effective breastfeeding is essential for maintaining lactation.
Physical Signs to Look For
Parents can sometimes visually assess tongue-tie by observing their baby’s mouth during yawning or crying. A restricted tongue may appear heart-shaped or have limited movement, making it difficult for the baby to extend their tongue beyond the gums. Additionally, if a baby makes a clicking sound while feeding, this can indicate that they are not latching properly, which is often associated with tongue-tie.
Consequences of Untreated Tongue-Tie
If tongue-tie goes unaddressed, it can lead to more serious complications. Mothers may experience breast inflammation or conditions like mastitis due to ineffective milk removal, which can be both painful and detrimental to breastfeeding success. Furthermore, the emotional toll on mothers can be significant, as they may feel frustrated or anxious about their breastfeeding journey.
Seeking Help
If parents suspect that tongue-tie is affecting their breastfeeding experience, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in lactation or pediatric care. They can perform a thorough assessment and discuss potential interventions, which may include exercises to improve tongue mobility or, in some cases, a minor surgical procedure to release the frenulum.
In conclusion, recognizing the signs of tongue-tie and understanding its implications on breastfeeding can empower parents to seek timely support. By addressing these challenges early, families can work towards a more successful and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.

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”

When is it too late to fix 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 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.

Can a tongue-tie make a baby gassy?

Tongue tie often causes babies to swallow more air than they otherwise should do, so this air gets into the stomach and into the gut. Hence, tongue tie can cause gas.

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.

Why is the latch worse after a tongue-tie?

If your baby has a tongue-tie and you are breastfeeding, you might experience one or more of the following in your baby: difficulty in latching. difficulty in maintaining a latch, with your baby frequently coming off the breast or slipping back to the nipple. a shallow latch.

What is the best breastfeeding position for tongue-tie?

Koala-hold (straddle-hold)
Koala-hold position is good for babies with reflux, an ear infection, tongue-tie, low muscle tone, hip dysplasia or oversupply of breast milk. This position is easier for babies who can sit unaided. You can use this position with a newborn if you give your baby plenty of support.

How do I get my baby checked for a tongue-tie?

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.

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

If your baby has tongue-tie, you may experience: low milk supply reducing your milk supply as your baby is not latching on and feeding well. having sore or cracked nipples, which can make breastfeeding painful. mastitis – engorged breasts (which can lead to mastitis) caused by poor latching on and ineffective feeding.

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.