Parents may feel very confused when their newborn has difficulty breastfeeding from the first days. While this can sometimes be attributed to the mother’s inexperience, there are underlying medical conditions such as tongue-tie that can be the direct cause.

This condition is characterized by a short tissue band under the tongue that limits its natural movement. Its impact varies from child to child; it may be unnoticed or may completely hinder breastfeeding. Leaving it untreated can affect nutrition and later impact speech and dental development.

According to reports published on inspirahealthnetwork and rootdent, breastfeeding specialists confirm that signs of this problem often appear during breastfeeding. The baby may stay at the breast for a long time without getting enough milk or make unusual sounds. Some mothers experience repeated pain and nipple injuries even with correct positioning. In other cases, the baby shows additional symptoms such as reflux, excessive gas, or sudden refusal to breastfeed.

There are several treatment options for this problem:

• Non-surgical techniques: adjusting breastfeeding position, special tongue and jaw exercises, and supporting the mother to reduce pain.
• Surgical intervention: frenotomy, or cutting the frenulum using scissors or laser. It is a quick and relatively safe procedure that allows the baby to breastfeed immediately afterward.
• Supportive therapies: such as occupational therapy or osteopathy sessions to relieve any muscle tension in the neck and jaw.

Prompt action to resolve the issue ensures the baby receives adequate nutrition and spares parents ongoing worry. In the long term, it provides the child with a chance for proper jaw and teeth development and reduces the likelihood of speech disorders. This highlights the importance of early intervention, diagnosis, and treatment.