NHS Trust introduces service to improve newborn feeding

Wednesday, 3 April 2024 20:03

By Yana Trup

Baby Aris, the 100th baby to have the procedure, with parents Adrian and Alexandra Blanaru between senior midwives Bianca Baum (left) and Kelly Kinsella (right) Photo credit: WHTH

A new West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust service which helps newborn babies struggling to feed because of a condition with their tongues, has already supported over 100 families since November 2023.

The midwife-led tongue-tie service aims to address the needs of newborns experiencing feeding difficulties and offer support to families during this critical stage of their babies’ journey.

Tongue-tie is a condition where the membrane beneath a babies’ tongue is too short or tight, therefore restricting the tongue’s movement. This can pose challenges for breast or bottle feeding. The tongue-tie division procedure is a quick and simple intervention that usually improves feeding.

The service welcomes referrals for babies aged 5 to 28 days old. Parents have shared positive feedback and reported significant improvements in feeding experiences following the procedure.

Kelly Kinsella, infant feeding team lead, said: “We understand how important it is to quickly address feeding challenges for both mothers and babies. By collaborating with community healthcare professionals, we aim to diagnose tongue-tie much earlier and provide prompt support and care for infants and their families.”

For those seeking help for infant feeding, please talk to your midwife or healthcare visitor who will be able to refer you to the tongue-tie service.

Clinics are held weekly in the Alexandra Birthing Centre at Watford General Hospital.

Find out more about the West Herts tongue-tie service here: https://www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/maternity/postnatalcare/infantfeeding/tonguetieservice.asp and read this patient information leaflet for families: https://www.westhertshospitals.nhs.uk/patientinformation/documents/maternity/40-2209-V1_Maternity_Tongue-tie_PIL.pdf

More from Local Vibes: News

The Top Five Films and TV Shows to Watch this Week (6th - 11th October 2024)

Video

We have officially peaked when it comes to staying in and watching good TV! This week, I have chosen five shows that will keep you gripped. From interesting real life matters to rags to riches dramas, settle in and enjoy the following…
Charity appeals for volunteers to join cancer support programme

The Cancer Champions Programme, run by One Vision and partnered with Macmillan Cancer Support, aims to support those in the Watford and Three Rivers area with a cancer diagnosis and their families.
Watford FC's Helen Ward discusses her expansive career and returning to Watford.

Vibe 107.6 had the pleasure of sitting down with Watford Women FC’s former player and current coach, Helen Ward.
The Top Five Films and TV Shows to Watch this Week (29th September - 3rd October 2024)

Video

Gripping dramas and real life stories are making a comeback to our screens, as we start to spend cosy nights in again. This week, my top features the best of the best from these genres, which will keep you gripped for hours. Don’t miss…
The Top Five Films and TV Shows to Watch this Week (22nd - 27th September 2024)

Video

Emotions are going to be running high this week, as all our channels are bringing in those autumn must-see features! From returning reality hits to new comedies, you are not going to want to miss my top five TV show picks…
The Top Five Films and TV Shows to Watch this Week (15th - 19th September 2024)

Video

This week, our TV screens are bringing a lot of fun to them. Full of captivating watches, there are a lot of edge of your seat and laugh out loud moments that the whole family can enjoy. Get ready to snuggle up and stay in with these five wonders…