Is it unusual for a baby to make clicking sounds while breastfeeding? Know what the sound means for your baby’s health in this article.
First-time parents are often worried when babies make a clicking sound while breastfeeding. However, the sound is not always a cause of concern. The most common reason behind the clicking sound is the loss of suction during the process. If clicking does not occur consistently during breastfeeding, then you should not worry at all, but if the baby is clicking more than often, you should figure out the reason behind it as soon as possible.
Clicking Sound While Breastfeeding- Causes
1. Excess Milk
In some cases, when the mother is making excess milk, it is hard for the baby to keep up with the milk flow. The rapid suckling and gulping can make the baby’s hold on the breast unstable, thus leading to clicking sounds.
2. Engorged Breasts
Suction can also be broken due to various other reasons. For instance, engorged breasts that have excess milk are hard and full, making it difficult for the baby to latch on to them properly. The process can lead to clicking as well.
3. Baby’s Inability to Latch
Improper latch or baby’s inability to latch on to the nipples properly is one of the main reasons for the clicking sound. Constant adjustment of the teeth and the babies’ tongues, trying to latch on for a proper feed leads to clicking sounds.
4. Anatomical Abnormality
A high palette or tied tongue can cause distress to the baby and clicking sounds as well. The tied tongue is a medical condition where the baby’s tongue is connected to the floor of the mouth with a thick band. The condition needs medical attention.
5. Ear Infections
Ear infections in babies also lead to poor suction. Thus, leading to clicking sounds while breastfeeding. Not only does sucking create extra pressure in the ears, but it can also lead to irritation and pain. Ear infections in kids need to be reported to the pediatrician immediately.
Other Infections and Thrush
Respiratory infections, blocked nose, and cold can cause clicking while breastfeeding as the baby is unable to latch on properly due to discomfort. In addition to that, thrush can also lead to clicking. Thrush is a yeast infection in babies’ mouths that leads to soreness and excessive itchiness. These conditions make it difficult for the baby to latch on properly.
Note: If clicking is a constant issue with your baby, you should visit a doctor or get a lactation consultation.
Signs to Watch Out For While Breastfeeding
1. Infected Mouth
If you feel your baby is constantly losing latch, check your baby’s mouth for any form of swelling, soreness or irritation. In addition to clicking, mouth infections in babies can lead to other nursing issues.
2. Sore Nipples
Breastfeeding is not a painful process. So, sore nipples and constant pain while feeding are not healthy. It is also your first indicator that something is not right.
3. Weight Gain Issues
When your baby is feeding properly, they will gain weight and hit weight-gain milestones quickly. However, babies who are unable to take a feed properly struggle to gain weight. It would be best to talk to your doctor about both the issues, clicking, and slow-weight gain.
Share your concerns and helpful tips with fellow moms! You will come across mothers facing the same issues sometimes.
