Are Lip and Tongue Ties Linked to Postpartum Depression?

Did you know that 70% to 80% of new mothers experience postpartum depression? A case of the “baby blues” can last for several weeks or months. It’s common for new mothers to experience feelings of guilt or anxiety. You may also feel anxious, fatigued, or run down. Many factors contribute to postpartum depression, like lack of emotional support, sleep deprivation, and other issues. However, researchers have found a potential link between lip & tongue ties and the baby blues.

Postpartum Depression and Tongue Ties

You received a lot of care during your pregnancy to ensure the health and development of your little one. However, after delivering your child, you can experience many complications that you probably had not anticipated, like difficulty feeding or a fussy baby. Believe it or not, these may be signs of a lip or tongue tie. 

Latching difficulties, sore nipples, and other nursing challenges can be caused by your little one having a tied lip or tongue. As your infant struggles to feed, it can fuel symptoms of postpartum depression. 

A frenectomy can free your child’s lip or tongue to make nursing easier. It will also ensure your little one can make the oral movements necessary for their development and wellness.

Common Signs of a Lip of Tongue Tie

Researchers have found that approximately 25% of babies are affected by a lip or tongue tie. When the band of tissue underneath the tongue or upper lip is too short or thick, it can make it difficult for your infant to suck or swallow. This can affect their weight and development. If it isn’t corrected, it can affect their speech, nutrition, and confidence as they grow. Lip and tongue tie can cause many symptoms, including:

• Poor latching when nursing.
• Falls asleep when trying to latch.
• Colic or reflux.
• Poor weight gain.
• Gumming or chewing on the nipple when nursing.
• Unable to hold a pacifier in their mouth.
• Unable to use a bottle.
• Difficulty lifting or sticking out their tongue.
• The tongue has a heart-shaped appearance.

Besides your little one showing signs of a tied lip or tongue, you can experience many symptoms as well. Besides postpartum depression, you may experience:

• Low milk supply. 
• Breast inflammation.
• Sore or cracked nipples.

Your child’s pediatric dentist can free the band of tissue using a soft tissue laser. A frenectomy will give your little one proper lip and tongue movements to support their development and wellness. Besides getting your infant the care they need, speak with your physician or a healthcare professional about any postpartum depression concerns. 

About Dr. Maggie Davis

Dr. Maggie Davis is a mother and a pediatric dentist. After earning her dental degree and becoming a board-certified pediatric dentist, she continued her training to specialize in frenectomies. She is a member of the American Board of Laser Surgery, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through her website or call her office at (727) 605-4642.