Mothers’ Perceptions and Experiences on Tongue-tie and Frenotomy: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Tongue-tie is a congenital condition of a thickened, tightened or shortened frenulum. This condition may cause breastfeeding difficulties to both mother and infant, such as ineffective suckling and painful nipple. In older children, it can cause speech difficulties. Although many studies have investigated the problems associated with tongue-tie and its treatments, there are limited studies on the mother’s experiences of tongue-tie and post frenotomy. This study aimed to explore the mother’s experiences of tongue-tie associated problems, frenotomy and the outcome. Methods: In-depth interviews were conducted in a one-on-one setting with fifteen mothers whose infant and children underwent frenotomy. Data were collected, transcripted, translated and analysed according to themes. Results: The analysis revealed a common story of stressful challenges and difficulties of breastfeeding. The mothers described that tongue-tie caused poor latching, nipple pain and bleeding, prolong feeding and lack of sleep. Their infant had poor weight gain, sleeping problems, insufficient milk transfer, fatigue and constant crying. For the older children, mothers complained of restricted tongue movement, difficulty in licking ice cream and speech problems. All of them agreed that the frenotomy procedure was easy, simple and less invasive and the outcome was positive. Furthermore, mothers continued breastfeeding without any difficulties and complications. Conclusion: Mothers in this study had difficulties with breastfeeding. However, all of the reported symptoms improved after frenotomy. They considered frenotomy was a simple and safe procedure that was highly recommended for symptomatic tongue-tie.