The early newborn stage comes with many decisions like how a parent wishes to feed their baby and what method is best for them both. If a mother decides to nurse her baby, she may feel additional pressure if breastfeeding difficulties are added into the mix. One problem that is often evaluated for while navigating breastfeeding challenges is tongue-ties.
A tongue-tie occurs when a strip of tissue called the lingual frenulum connects the tip of a baby’s tongue to the bottom of their mouth and restricts tongue movement.
Signs that a tongue-tie could be causing issues may include:
- baby having difficulty latching or popping off the breast.
- baby takes longer than 30 minutes to finish a feed.
- baby becoming fatigued quickly while nursing.
- baby losing too much weight.
- persistent nipple pain during nursing for the breastfeeding parent.
Early intervention is best for any feeding problems or if you experience any of the symptoms above. “Any concern with feeding difficulties and/or tongue tie should be promptly examined by a pediatrician.” says Bridget Hall, MD, a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section of Breastfeeding Medicine.
You can also seek the support of a lactation consultant or occupational therapist. Washington University occupational therapists offer a feeding clinic at 4444 Forest Park Avenue, St. Louis, MO, 63108.
If assistance from a supportive professional does not relieve the challenges and a tongue-tie is still causing milk transfer problems or persistent pain with breastfeeding, a frenectomy (simple removal of the connecting tissue) by a pediatric otolaryngologist at St. Louis Children’s Hospital may be appropriate.
If you are in need of a pediatrician, please visit Suburban Pediatrics.
Suburban Pediatrics – South County
4116 Von Talge Road, Suite B
St. Louis, MO 63128
Phone: 314-939-1674
Suburban Pediatrics – West County
456 N. New Ballas Road, Suite 304
St. Louis, MO 63141
Phone: 314-567-6868