Breastfeeding is often described as a beautiful and bonding experience between a mother and her baby. However, for some mothers, it can be a painful and frustrating ordeal, leaving them wondering, "Why does it hurt when I breastfeed?" One possible explanation for breastfeeding pain and discomfort in mothers is tongue ties in babies.

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Tongue ties, or ankyloglossia, occur when the lingual frenulum—the thin band of tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth—is shorter or tighter than usual. This condition can restrict the movement of the tongue, making it difficult for the baby to latch onto the breast properly and effectively extract milk during feeding sessions.

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So, how does a tongue tie lead to breastfeeding pain for mothers? Here are some key reasons:

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1. Poor Latch: Babies with tongue ties may struggle to latch onto the breast correctly due to limited tongue mobility. A shallow latch can result in nipple pain, soreness, and damage as the baby tries to feed.
2. Ineffective Milk Transfer: A restricted tongue movement can hinder the baby's ability to create a vacuum seal and effectively remove milk from the breast. As a result, the baby may not receive enough milk during feeding sessions, leading to frustration and prolonged feeding times.
3. Nipple Trauma: Continuous improper latch and ineffective feeding due to tongue ties can cause trauma to the mother's nipples. This trauma can manifest as cracked, bruised, or blistered nipples, making breastfeeding a painful experience.
4. Engorgement: Inadequate milk removal from the breast due to ineffective feeding can lead to engorgement, where the breasts become overly full and swollen. Engorgement can exacerbate breastfeeding pain and discomfort for mothers.
5. Mastitis: In severe cases, untreated nipple trauma and engorgement can increase the risk of mastitis, a painful inflammation of the breast tissue. Mastitis can cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches, further adding to the discomfort of breastfeeding.

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If you're experiencing breastfeeding pain, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about tongue ties and breastfeeding difficulties. A thorough evaluation of your baby's latch and oral function can help identify if a tongue tie is contributing to your breastfeeding challenges.

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If you suspect that your baby may have a tongue tie and it's affecting breastfeeding, Colorado Tongue Tie can help. Schedule a consultation today to find out if your baby has a tongue tie and explore treatment options for improved breastfeeding.