What is a tongue-tie?
Tongue-tie (also known as ankyloglossia) is a common condition were a thin membrane under the tongue, joins the tongue to the floor of the mouth more than it should do.
Identifying a tongue-tie:
Mother
Sore, damaged or bruised nipples
Painful feeding
Misshapen nipples after feeding
Mastitis
Frequent feeding or very long feeds
Reduction in milk supply
Baby
Restricted tongue movement
Small gape / clicking noises while feeding
Difficulty staying attached to breast or bottle
Windy and unsettled
Weight loss / failure to thrive
Never contented after feed/ always hungry
Treatment:
If you suspect that your baby has a tongue-tie you can then decide on the course of treatment you wish to follow.
You may wish to consider having a tongue-tie procedure performed (frenulotomy).
Are there any risks involved?
Bleeding – The risk of bleeding is minimal. If your baby does bleed it normally settles down on its own with no further treatment or long term effects on your baby.
Infection – The risk of infection is very rare.
Reformation – In some babies the tongue-tie may reform which may require a further procedure.
Breastfeeding
We are passionate about supporting mothers through their breastfeeding journey. We know that breastmilk is the optimum form of nutrition as it significantly improves the health and well-being of mother and baby.
Here below are some useful links to help you through your breastfeeding journey.
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