Experiences of Tongue Tie when Breastfeeding Twins: A Qualitative Study

Problem
Tongue tie is an added complication when breastfeeding, but little is known about the role tongue tie might play when breastfeeding twins.
Background
Twins are much less likely to be breastfed than singleton babies due to added complications regarding pregnancy, birth and ongoing care. Tongue tie can cause breastfeeding barriers including poor latch, inefficient milk transfer and nipple pain.
Aim
The aim of this study was to conduct an in-depth exploration of the experiences of mothers who have breastfeed twins with suspected or diagnosed tongue tie.
Methods
Interview and qualitative survey data exploring the experience of breastfeeding twins and multiples were analysed with a focus on the experiences of participants reporting on suspected or diagnosed tongue tie. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Findings
Three themes were developed. These were: 1) feeling disempowered by tongue tie denial; which illustrated the experience of dismissal by healthcare professionals, 2) the avoidable impact of diagnostic delay; highlighting the practical, physical and psychological impact of tongue tie, and 3) improvements following intervention; illustrating the immediate improvements experienced following frenotomy.