Tongue Tie Assessment and Feeding Support
A visible frenulum does not necessarily mean that a baby has a feeding problem and feeding difficulties are not always caused by tongue-tie.
A meaningful tongue-tie assessment considers function: how your baby moves their tongue, how they feed, whether milk is transferred effectively and whether restriction appears to be contributing to the difficulties you are experiencing.
As a midwife, IBCLC and certified tongue-tie practitioner I bring feeding assessment and oral-function assessment together rather than considering the tongue in isolation.
When A Tongue Tie Assessment May Be Helpful
You may wish to arrange an assessment if your baby:
- Difficulty attaching or staying attached to the breast
- Clicking sounds, lost suction or persistent fatigue
- Feeds for very long periods without appearing satisfied
- Has difficulty managing milk flow
- Breast or bottle feeding difficulties
- Causes persistent nipple pain or damage
- Has weight gain or concerns about milk transfer
- Restricted tongue movement affecting feeding function
- Has already been told that they may or may not have a tongue-tie, but feeding remains difficult
These signs can have several causes. An assessment is intended to explore the full feeding picture rather than assume that tongue-tie is responsible.
What the assessment includes
A detailed pregnancy, birth and feeding history
Discussion of feeding symptoms, concerns and family goals
Observation of a complete breast or bottle feed
Assessment of attachment, sucking, swallowing and milk transfer
Gentle oral examination with parental consent
Assessment of tongue movement and oral factors
Consideration of other factors that may affect feeding
A clear explanation of my findings
Immediate feeding support and strategies that may improve comfort and milk transfer
Discussion of appropriate NHS or private referral options where necessary
A personalized written and/or pdf plan
Important information
This service includes tongue-tie and oral-function assessment but does not include tongue-tie division.
An assessment does not guarantee that a restriction will be identified or that division will be recommended.
Where referral is appropriate, I can explain your options and provide relevant information, but I cannot guarantee acceptance, appointment times or treatment by another provider.
Photographs and videos can provide useful background information but cannot replace an in-person oral and feeding assessment.
After division or treatment
I can also support you before and after a tongue-tie procedure.
Division alone does not automatically resolve every feeding difficulty. Follow-up may involve reviewing attachment, milk transfer, maternal comfort, bottle feeding, milk supply and helping your baby adapt to feeding differently.