Navigating Breastfeeding Challenges: Tongue Ties
Breastfeeding is a journey that varies greatly from one mother to another. For those facing the challenge of a baby with a tongue tie, this journey can be especially demanding. Tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the strip of tissue connecting a baby’s tongue to the floor of their mouth is shorter or more restricted than usual, limiting tongue movement. This can make breastfeeding difficult for both the baby and the mother. Continue with me as we explore strategies and insights to help mothers navigate breastfeeding with a baby who has a tongue tie.
Understanding the Impact of Tongue Ties
Latch Difficulties: A tongue tie can make it hard for the baby to latch correctly onto the breast, leading to ineffective breastfeeding.
Painful Breastfeeding: Due to the improper latch, mothers might experience more nipple pain and discomfort during feeds. Nipple pain and damage is never normal despite what others may tell you!
Insufficient Milk Transfer: Babies with tongue ties may struggle to effectively extract milk, which can impact their weight gain and nutrition.
Airway development: Tongue ties can impact the development of the child’s airway-structurally and functionally. It can cause the palate (roof of the mouth) to be narrow (due to the tongue not naturally expanding the palate by pushing up on the roof of the mouth during feeding). This negatively affects nasal breathing and closed mouth posture.
Strategies for Successful Breastfeeding
Seek Professional Help: Lactation consultants (specifically an IBCLC) can provide invaluable assistance. They can offer techniques and positions that might make breastfeeding more comfortable and effective.
Seek out bodywork and therapy: Bodywork can be very effective in helping the baby to have better mobility of the entire body- including the neck and jaw which can significantly impact feeding. Therapy helps the baby to have improved strength, endurance, and coordination while feeding.
Consider Tongue Tie Release: In some cases, a simple procedure called a frenectomy can be performed to release the tongue tie. Consult with a pediatric dentist who has speciality training to discuss this option.
Try Different Breastfeeding Positions: Experiment with various positions to find what works best for you and your baby. Some mothers find that positions allowing gravity to help with latch, like laid-back breastfeeding, are effective.
Use Nipple Shields: Under the guidance of a lactation consultant, nipple shields can sometimes make breastfeeding more comfortable and can help with the baby’s latch. This is a temporary tool to help while you’re working towards your feeding goals.
Maintain Your Milk Supply: If breastfeeding is challenging, it is vital to maintain your milk supply. Pumping can be time consuming, however it is important to continue to produce enough milk if your goal is to breastfeed. Work with a lactation consultant on your pumping schedule to meet your baby’s needs.
Pain Management: Breastfeeding should NOT be painful. It should feel like a gentle tug of the nipple. If breastfeeding is painful and you have nipple damage, use silverettes or hydrogel pads after feeds to aid in healing.
My favorite website for parents to read on the subject of tongue ties is Dr. Ghaheri’s blog. Take a look HERE.
Emotional Support and Self-Care
Connect with Others: Joining a breastfeeding support group, especially one with mothers who have faced similar challenges, can provide emotional support and practical advice.
Focus on Bonding: Sometimes breastfeeding challenges can cause breastfeeding to feel like a job and not always a bonding activity. Try to find different ways to feel close and bond with your baby, it does not always have to be through breastfeeding.
Take Care of Yourself: Eat well, stay hydrated, and rest when you can. Your well-being is crucial for both you and your baby.
Celebrate Small Victories: Every successful feed is an achievement. Celebrate these moments and acknowledge your hard work.
Breastfeeding a baby with a tongue tie can be challenging, but with the right support and strategies, many mothers successfully navigate this journey. Remember, every breastfeeding experience is unique, and what matters most is finding what works best for you and your baby. Above all, be kind to yourself and know that you are doing an incredible job.
Navigating a baby with a tongue tie can add an extra layer of complexity to the already challenging task of breastfeeding. However, with patience, the right support, and a willingness to try different strategies, many mothers find a way through these challenges. Your dedication and love for your baby are what truly make the difference in this journey.
-Keep Your Munchkins Moving
