Tongue tie is something many parents hear about during their feeding journey, but understanding what it actually is can feel confusing and overwhelming. At The Feeding Circle, I support families with tongue tie assessments, feeding support, and ongoing care before and after tongue tie division.
What Is a Tongue Tie?
Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) occurs when the band of tissue under the tongue, called the frenulum, is shorter, tighter, or less flexible than usual. Some babies with tongue tie feed without any difficulties, while others may struggle with feeding, milk transfer, or comfort.
It is important to remember that feeding should always be assessed as a whole picture, not just the appearance of the frenulum alone.
Common Signs of Tongue Tie in Babies
Every baby is different, but some common signs can include:
- Difficulty latching
- Shallow latch
- Clicking sounds during feeds
- Frequent slipping off the breast
- Long or unsettled feeds
- Windy or unsettled behaviour
- Difficulty maintaining suction
- Poor milk transfer
- Slow weight gain
Symptoms Parents May Experience
Tongue tie can also affect feeding parents. Some parents may experience:
- Painful feeds
- Damaged nipples
- Lipstick-shaped nipples after feeding
- Recurrent blocked ducts or mastitis
- Reduced milk supply due to ineffective milk removal
- Exhaustion from frequent feeding
Feeding challenges are incredibly common and are never your fault. Support can make a significant difference to both feeding comfort and confidence.
How Is Tongue Tie Assessed?
A tongue tie assessment should involve more than simply looking inside your baby’s mouth. At The Feeding Circle, assessments include:
- Full feeding history
- Observation of a feed
- Assessment of latch and positioning
- Oral assessment
- Discussion of symptoms and concerns
- Individualised support plan
The goal is always to understand how feeding is functioning overall and whether tongue tie may be contributing to difficulties.
What Is Tongue Tie Division?
If appropriate, a tongue tie division (release) may be recommended. This is a quick procedure where the restrictive frenulum is released to allow improved tongue movement. Families are fully supported before, during, and after the procedure, including feeding support and aftercare guidance.
Feeding Support Matters
A tongue tie division alone is not always the complete solution. Feeding patterns, positioning, muscle tension, milk supply, and feeding confidence can all play a role. This is why ongoing feeding support is so important.
At The Feeding Circle, support is centred around both you and your baby — helping feeding feel more comfortable, effective, and manageable. I offer compassionate tongue tie and infant feeding support across Salisbury, Andover, Amesbury, Wilton, and surrounding areas, including home visits and ongoing follow-up support.
Final Thoughts
If feeding feels difficult, painful, or overwhelming, trust your instincts. You know your baby best. Whether you need reassurance, a feeding assessment, or tongue tie support, you do not have to navigate feeding challenges alone.
Support is available to help feeding feel calmer, more comfortable, and more manageable for both you and your baby.
Written by Naomi
