If you’ve been part of a new parent group, whether in-person or online, you’ve likely encountered the term “tongue-tie.” This medical condition, known as ankyloglossia, refers to a shorter-than-normal band of tissue that connects a baby’s tongue to the floor of their mouth. While many infants diagnosed with tongue-tie show no signs of discomfort, others may struggle with breastfeeding, leading to painful experiences for mothers.
Alongside tongue-tie, many babies also present with lip-tie, where the skin connecting the lip to the gums is similarly restricted. These conditions can hinder a baby’s ability to latch properly, creating a vacuum effect necessary for effective breastfeeding. It’s not uncommon for moms to hear a distinctive clicking sound during nursing when tongue or lip ties are present.
When my son was around one month old, he was among the 4-11% of newborns identified with tongue-tie. This was first observed by our lactation consultant during a session, where he consistently demonstrated that telltale clicking noise. After discussing his feeding challenges with both the consultant and his pediatrician, we decided to have his minor tongue-tie clipped in the office to improve our breastfeeding experience.
The procedure was straightforward, requiring only topical numbing. My son’s brief moment of discomfort was due to being held still rather than any pain from the clipping itself. Post-procedure, he was quickly comforted with cuddles and seemed fine. However, we ultimately faced ongoing difficulties with breastfeeding. Although the procedure didn’t yield the improvements we anticipated, it’s important to note that many families experience significant benefits from tongue clipping.
The growing trend of tongue-tie revisions, also known as frenotomies or frenulotomies, has sparked discussions about the necessity and frequency of these procedures. Severe cases of tongue-tie can be linked to weight gain issues, as well as challenges in eating and speaking later in life. While the risks associated with these procedures are low, including complications like bleeding or infection, they are still carefully considered by parents and healthcare providers alike.
A study led by pediatric surgeon Dr. Mark Thompson revealed a dramatic increase in diagnosed cases of tongue-tie, from 3,934 in 1997 to 33,000 in 2012. Alongside this, the number of revision surgeries surged from 1,279 to over 12,000 in the same timeframe. This surge raises questions about either over-diagnosis or improved recognition of those in need of treatment.
As lactation expert Sarah Johnson points out, the current societal pressures surrounding breastfeeding contribute to the heightened awareness of tongue-tie. New mothers often feel compelled to explore every possible solution to breastfeeding difficulties, which has led to a greater focus on tongue and lip ties as potential culprits. In the past, if breastfeeding didn’t go smoothly, many simply transitioned to formula without hesitation.
If you’re experiencing pain or challenges while nursing, it’s common to consider tongue-tie as a possible cause. Engaging with your child’s healthcare provider to discuss this option can be beneficial. Personally, I have no regrets about my son’s procedure, even though it didn’t resolve our breastfeeding hurdles. Remember, not every baby with tongue or lip ties will struggle with nursing, and opting for a revision is a personal choice that should be made in consultation with trusted medical professionals.
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In summary, while the trend of tongue clipping is on the rise, it’s crucial to approach each case individually. Not all infants with tongue or lip ties require correction, and the decision should be based on comprehensive discussions with healthcare providers.