Lip Tie, Tongue Tie and my Bumpy Ride of Breastfeeding

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Introduction

In the beautiful journey of motherhood, breastfeeding is often considered one of the most natural and rewarding experiences. It not only nourishes your little one but also creates a strong bond between you and your baby. However, for some mothers, this seemingly simple act can become a challenge due to issues like lip tie and tongue tie. In this blog post, I want to share my personal story of breastfeeding with lip tie and tongue tie, shedding light on the ups, downs, and everything in between.

The Early Days: A Rocky Start

I was introduced to breastfeeding through webinars and live sessions from my hospital during my pregnancy. We, the mothers, always want the best for our kids, and when I came to know about the numerous benefits of breastfeeding, I decided to exclusively breastfeed my baby from the first day. Little did I know then that breastfeeding could be so challenging and overwhelming.

As soon as my baby was born, I tried to breastfeed, but was taken aback as my baby was not able to latch. I knew that suckling is a natural instinct and had no idea why it’s not the case with my baby until the lactation consultant visited our room to suggest that my daughter might have Tongue tie.

Tongue tie?? I was clueless about what that meant and was devastated to know that my newborn might need to go through a surgical procedure if I wanted to breastfeed. My tiny baby was just 2 days old, and I could not imagine taking her for a procedure.

Navigating the emotional Rollercoaster

In the beginning, though I was nurturing her with expressed breast milk using an electric pump, I was adamant about my initial resolution of breastfeeding and kept on trying her to latch. Eventually, she did latch after two weeks, but my breastfeeding sessions were very long, and on top of that, she wanted frequent feeds and was not able to sleep properly. I had no time for anything else in the world than breastfeeding, and it was taking a toll on my physical health.

Breastfeeding is not just a physical endeavor; it’s also an emotional one. Dealing with the initial difficulties and the uncertainty of whether my baby was getting enough nourishment took a toll on my mental well-being. It was essential to remember that it’s okay to have moments of frustration and doubt. Managing the baby and household chores together became a humongous task for both me and my husband, and we were both already exhausted due to the continuous sleepless nights. Things were not working!

The decision to revise Ties

We started to research about tongue tie and read some of the personal stories of mothers who rode the same boat and eventually became relieved only after tongue tie was released for their babies. My daughter Arohi was already 4 weeks old when we finally decided to visit the pediatrics orthodontist suggested by our lactation consultant. After an initial diagnosis, it turned out that my daughter has tongue tie as well as lip tie.

Another surprise for us! However, we felt at ease after discussing the situation with the doctor. He showed us examples of some cases where tongue-ties and lip-ties were not detected, and these conditions caused speech and eating problems, poor sleep patterns, and a wide range of other concerns later in life. Finally, through a laser procedure, my baby’s tongue tie and lip tie were removed, and it just took around 10 minutes.

Progress and Patience

After the revision, we embarked on a journey of patience and perseverance. The pain during breastfeeding began to subside, and I noticed gradual improvements in my baby’s latch and suckling ability. We worked closely with a lactation consultant who provided invaluable guidance and support. Things were much better afterward. Her latch was much deeper than before, feeding sessions were shorter, and her sleep pattern also improved. Breastfeeding became more comfortable, and the bond between my baby and me grew stronger with each feeding. Seeing her thrive and gain weight was incredibly rewarding. A happy baby means happy parents:)

Understanding Lip Tie and Tongue Tie

What is Lip Tie?

Lip tie, medically known as “labial frenulum,” refers to the condition where the thin piece of skin connecting the upper lip to the gum is unusually short or tight. This condition can restrict the movement of the upper lip, making it difficult for the baby to achieve a proper latch during breastfeeding.

What is Tongue Tie?

Tongue tie, or ankyloglossia, is a condition in which the strip of skin beneath the baby’s tongue (lingual frenulum) is shorter than usual. This can restrict the range of motion of the baby’s tongue, making it challenging for them to effectively latch onto the breast and nurse.

The Impact on Breastfeeding

Common Challenges Faced by Mothers

Mothers with babies suffering from lip tie and tongue tie often encounter several challenges during breastfeeding, including:

• Pain and Discomfort: An improper latch can lead to nipple pain and damage, making breastfeeding a painful experience for mothers.

• Low Milk Supply: Inadequate latching can hinder the baby’s ability to stimulate milk production, potentially leading to low milk supply.

• Frustration and Stress: Repeated unsuccessful attempts at breastfeeding can cause emotional distress for both the mother and the baby.

Identifying Lip Tie and Tongue Tie

Signs to Look For

To determine if your baby has lip tie or tongue tie, watch out for the following signs:

• Difficulty latching onto the breast.
• Shallow latch.
• Nipple pain or damage.
• Poor weight gain in the baby.
• Fussiness during feedings.

Seeking Help and Treatment Options

Consultation with a Lactation Consultant

If you suspect that your baby may have lip tie or tongue tie, it’s crucial to consult a certified lactation consultant. They can provide guidance on proper latching techniques and assess your baby’s condition.

Frenotomy

In some cases, like ours a minor surgical procedure known as frenotomy may be recommended. During a frenotomy, the tight skin under the tongue or upper lip is cut to improve the baby’s ability to latch onto the breast effectively. This procedure is quick, safe, and relatively painless.

Building a Support System

Emotional Support for Mothers

Dealing with breastfeeding struggles can be emotionally draining for mothers. It’s essential to seek support from friends, family, or support groups to navigate these challenges effectively. My partner also played a crucial role in this journey. He provided emotional support, attended lactation consultant appointments with me, and took on nighttime feedings when needed, allowing me to rest and recover.

Patience and Persistence

Remember that breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby. Be patient, and with time and practice, many breastfeeding issues, including those related to lip tie and tongue tie, can be resolved. I reached out to other mothers who had experienced similar issues, joining online forums and support groups. Sharing our stories, tips, and encouragement proved invaluable in keeping my spirits up during the toughest moments.

Conclusion – A Journey of Resilience:

Breastfeeding with lip tie and tongue tie presented its fair share of challenges, but it also taught me resilience and determination. It reinforced the importance of seeking professional help and support when facing breastfeeding difficulties. Every mother’s journey is unique, and while mine had its bumps and hurdles, it ultimately led to a fulfilling and rewarding breastfeeding experience.

If you find yourself facing similar challenges on your breastfeeding journey, know that you are not alone, and there is hope. Surround yourself with a supportive network, seek professional guidance, and above all, believe in your ability to provide the best nourishment and love for your little one. Embrace the journey, bumps and all, for it is a testament to your resilience and the enduring bond between a mother and her child. Please read my another blog Breastfeeding Nature’s Elixir (momlifewonders.com)

FAQs

1. Can lip tie and tongue tie be present in the same baby? Yes, it’s possible for a baby to have both lip tie and tongue tie, which can compound breastfeeding difficulties. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial in such cases.

2. Is frenotomy the only treatment for lip tie and tongue tie? Frenotomy is a common treatment, but the necessity of the procedure depends on the severity of the condition. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best course of action.

3. Can lip tie and tongue tie affect speech development in children? In some cases, untreated lip tie and tongue tie can lead to speech difficulties in older children. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to preventing potential speech issues.

4. How long does it take for a baby to recover after a frenotomy procedure? Most babies recover quickly after a frenotomy, with minimal discomfort. The healing process typically takes a few days, during which parents are advised to follow post-operative care instructions.

5. Is breastfeeding the only concern with lip tie and tongue tie? While breastfeeding is a common concern, lip tie and tongue tie can also affect a baby’s ability to eat solid foods and may lead to other oral health issues.