Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is a condition present from birth in which the strip of skin connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter or tighter than usual, potentially restricting tongue movement.
Tongue tie, known medically as ankyloglossia, is defined by the NHS as a condition "where the piece of skin connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is shorter or tighter than usual". This may restrict the tongue's ability to move freely, which can affect an infant's ability to breastfeed effectively. The tongue may appear heart-shaped when lifted or protruded. The NHS notes that tongue tie is most common in babies.
How does tongue tie affect breastfeeding?
According to the NHS, a baby with tongue tie may "have difficulty attaching (latching) or staying attached to the breast or bottle teat", may require prolonged feeding sessions with frequent hunger, may "cough, choke or make clicking noises when feeding", and may have reduced milk intake per session leading to inadequate weight gain. The NHS also notes that breastfeeding mothers of babies with tongue tie "may have sore nipples or painful and swollen breasts". The NHS notes that tongue tie is "easily treated" when it is causing problems.
Does tongue tie always need treatment?
The NHS states that "treatment is not usually needed if tongue-tie is not causing any problems". Where it does cause feeding difficulties, options include professional lactation support and feeding guidance, or surgical division of the restrictive tissue (frenotomy). The NHS notes that most infants demonstrate rapid recovery and improved feeding following the procedure.
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