Do Upper-Lip Ties Really Cause Breast-Feeding Problems?

Multiple maternal and infant factors can interfere with breast-feeding. Although severe tongue-ties have been associated with poor latch, maternal nipple pain, and poor weight gain, the role of the upper lip-tie remains controversial. In this prospective cohort study, the investigators evaluated upper lip-tie anatomy in 265 healthy, full-term breast-feeding newborns and its association with breast-feeding difficulties. Mothers completed a validated breast-feeding questionnaire during the birth hospitalization and a 6-month follow-up survey assessing breast-feeding outcome and any surgical interventions.