There are simple ways to recognize a tongue-in a baby. Learn more about tongue-tie symptoms, how to recognize tongue-tie in a baby and how to get help.
How to recognize tongue tie in a baby?
Definition of tongue-tied
1: unable or disinclined to speak freely
Public speaking. Someone insanely attractive. Opening night. There are countless scenarios that can make you tongue-tied. Unfortunately, I can relate.
I suffer from a similar nervous reaction. Not fumbling on my words per se, but uncontrollably giggling in uncomfortable situations.
Side by side with our Dean, I was presenting awards to my fellow students and could NOT STOP LAUGHING!
I was nervous and as a result, unraveled. Meanwhile, my entire department wondered WHAT was so funny. I’m laughing right now.
The other form, which is why you are probably here, is when tongue tie occurs in a newborn baby. Tongue tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is when the piece of skin under your baby’s tongue is shorter or tighter than usual and limits the tongue’s movement. A tongue-tie affects 3.2 to 4.8% of infants. As a result, breastfeeding challenges can occur.
A pediatrician, ENT or pediatric dentist makes the official tongue tie diagnosis. In addition to your provider, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) can evaluate related challenges. Therefore, an IBCLC can help remedy your breastfeeding challenges as quickly as possible.
The most common tongue tie symptoms
- Breastfeeding is painful despite a deep latch
- Baby is unable to sustain a latch
- Hovers over nipple
- Latch lacks a tight seal
- It takes several attempts to successfully latch baby
- Feedings are exceptionally long or continuous
- Family history of tongue tie
How can a IBCLC recognize tongue tie in a baby
- Baby fails to extend tongue beyond the gum line
- Tongue is heart-shaped or flat-tipped when extended
- Mom has damaged nipples (cracked, bleeding, bruised)
- Mom is engorged or has plugged ducts
- Low to no milk transferred when performing a test weigh
If you are new to this and some of these terms sound a little overwhelming, take a look at my blog post that explains all the breastfeeding terms you need to know as a new mom.
Getting tongue-tie relief
If your baby is tongue-tied, take a deep breath! Yes. A tongue tie can cause pain and frustration for both mom & baby. However, a frenectomy is a safe, simple and quick procedure that is often a game-changer for your breastfeeding journey.
Get help from a lactation consultant
It’s always a good idea to consult a certified lactation specialist. If you’re interested, take a look at my services. Let’s connect to schedule an online or in-home consultation to evaluate tongue-tie related issues or any other breastfeeding challenges. I’m here to help!