Yes, a lip tie can potentially affect a baby’s ability to breastfeed. Lip tie refers to a condition where the tissue that attaches the upper lip to the upper gum is too tight or restrictive. This can sometimes lead to difficulty in latching onto the breast properly, which can result in poor feeding and inadequate milk transfer.
When a baby has a lip tie, they may struggle to maintain a deep latch while breastfeeding, causing discomfort or pain for both the baby and the breastfeeding parent. In some cases, it can also lead to issues such as slow weight gain for the baby or nipple damage for the parent.
It’s important for parents who suspect their baby has a lip tie and are experiencing breastfeeding difficulties to consult with a lactation consultant or a healthcare provider. They can assess the situation and provide guidance on how to manage the issue, which may involve techniques to improve latch or, in some cases, a referral to a specialist for a procedure to release the lip tie, known as a frenotomy or frenectomy.