Topics & Abstracts
2026 Presentations:
Every year, the GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium invites hand-selected researchers and clinicians in the field of infant tongue-tie care to present on current and emerging evidence-based education. We're proud to offer you a full spectrum of education, including current research, clinical skills, case studies, ethics, business development, cultural & geographical experiences & industry specific talks.
All talks are presented live during set times, with recordings of each session being available throughout the conference period. Conveniently access presentations at your own pace, enjoying all the benefits and features our online conference has to offer. New to GOLD Tongue-Tie? Learn how the online conference works here.
GOLD Tongue-Tie 2026 offers 11.75 hours of education for the main symposium, with the option to extend your symposium experience with 4 highly informative Add-on Lecture Packages:
2026 Main Presentation:
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Coordinated Care in Tongue-Tie Management: Aligning Providers, Supporting Families
by Panel Discussion 2026 60 mins
Management of tongue-tied infants remains a commonly debated area in infant feeding care. Variability in assessment methods, professional philosophies, and treatment approaches can create confusion for families and fragmentation between providers. This panel brings together IBCLCs, frenectomy providers, and pediatric bodyworkers to explore how structured, respectful, evidence-informed, and multi-disciplinary collaboration improves breastfeeding outcomes and parent experience. Participants will examine referral pathways, scope-of-practice boundaries, coordinated pre- and post-release care, and communication strategies that reduce confusion and improve continuity of care.
Objectives:
1. Explain the distinct roles and scope of practice of IBCLCs, frenectomy providers, and bodyworkers in tongue-tie management.
2. List key areas of tongue-tie management that can be improved through better coordinated pre- and post-frenectomy care between different professionals.
3. Describe strategies for building respectful, structured multi-disciplinary care that reduces interprofessional confusion and improves outcomes for families.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 23, 2026
Create a Reminder23-09-2026 21:00 23-09-2026 22:00 35 Coordinated Care in Tongue-Tie Management: Aligning Providers, Supporting Families Management of tongue-tied infants remains a commonly debated area in infant feeding care. Variability in assessment methods, professional philosophies, and treatment approaches can create confusion for families and fragmentation between providers. This panel brings together IBCLCs, frenectomy providers, and pediatric bodyworkers to explore how structured, respectful, evidence-informed, and multi-disciplinary collaboration improves breastfeeding outcomes and parent experience. Participants will examine referral pathways, scope-of-practice boundaries, coordinated pre- and post-release care, and communication strategies that reduce confusion and improve continuity of care. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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Differential Diagnosis of Breastfeeding Dysfunction: Bio-Mechanical Forces vs. Posterior Tongue-Tie
by Dr. Sharon Vallone, DC, FICCP 60 mins
Objectives:
1. Explain neuromyofascial compensations for mechanical joint dysfunction in infants vs. anatomical restrictions like posterior tongue tie.
2. Describe how to recognize mechanical joint dysfunction and muscular compensations in infants
3. Describe interventions to alleviate mechanical joint dysfunction and the ensuing myofascial compensations in infants as well as supportive modalities -
From Assessment to Aftercare: Collaborative Lessons from Real-World Tongue-Tie Case Studies
by Melissa Cole, MS, IBCLC 90 mins
Ankyloglossia assessment and management remain areas of clinical variability and interdisciplinary debate, often resulting in fragmented care and inconsistent outcomes. This interactive, case-based workshop explores comprehensive tongue-tie care across the clinical continuum—from assessment through aftercare—using real-world cases to highlight collaborative, evidence-informed decision-making.
Participants will review scenarios, emphasizing functional assessment, differential diagnosis, timing of intervention, and post-procedural support. Guided discussion will examine the roles of multiple disciplines involved in tongue-tie care and the many variables involved in real-world cases. This interactive presentation will help participants gain practical tools and critical thinking skills to strengthen interdisciplinary communication, care plan formation, and deliver consistent, family-centered tongue-tie care.Objectives:
1. Describe an interprofessional framework for evaluating suspected ankyloglossia, including comprehensive feeding assessment, differential diagnosis, and appropriate timing of intervention.
2. Apply evidence-informed decision-making strategies to real-world tongue-tie cases to determine how to best support families navigating tongue-tie related care
3. Describe collaborative care plan formation, communication and family education to optimize outcomes and improve the overall experience of tongue-tie related care"
Live Presentation Schedule Sep 21, 2026
Create a Reminder21-09-2026 17:00 21-09-2026 18:30 35 From Assessment to Aftercare: Collaborative Lessons from Real-World Tongue-Tie Case Studies Ankyloglossia assessment and management remain areas of clinical variability and interdisciplinary debate, often resulting in fragmented care and inconsistent outcomes. This interactive, case-based workshop explores comprehensive tongue-tie care across the clinical continuum—from assessment through aftercare—using real-world cases to highlight collaborative, evidence-informed decision-making. Participants will review scenarios, emphasizing functional assessment, differential diagnosis, timing of intervention, and post-procedural support. Guided discussion will examine the roles of multiple disciplines involved in tongue-tie care and the many variables involved in real-world cases. This interactive presentation will help participants gain practical tools and critical thinking skills to strengthen interdisciplinary communication, care plan formation, and deliver consistent, family-centered tongue-tie care. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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From Questions to Confidence: Supporting Parents' Understanding of Frenectomy
by Raymond Tseng, DDS, PhD 60 minsInfant frenectomy is increasingly discussed in the context of breastfeeding difficulties and oral functional concerns, yet parents are often exposed to inconsistent information, variable clinical recommendations, and polarized perspectives. This presentation is designed to assist professionals in supporting parental understanding of the clinical rationale, assessment process, and perioperative considerations surrounding frenectomy in infants.
This presentation will review the diagnostic process, including functional assessment, clinical indicators, and the role of multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers. The presentation will outline current approaches to infant frenectomy, describing procedural techniques while incorporating a review of the literature to highlight best practices. Postoperative management will be addressed, with discussion of wound care, feeding support, and the rationale for adjunctive therapies when indicated. Throughout the session, common misconceptions and areas of controversy within the literature will be acknowledged, highlighting the importance of individualized assessment and evidence-based counseling. By translating clinical and research findings into accessible, parent-focused education, this presentation aims to promote informed consent, reduce decisional conflict, and enhance parental confidence when considering frenectomy as part of comprehensive infant care.Objectives:
1. Describe diagnostic reasoning and clinical recommendations with clarity and transparency for parents with a tongue-tied infant
2. Explain procedural and postoperative evidence for frenectomy in a way that translates into actionable guidance for families
3. Describe the purpose of post-frenectomy stretches/exercises and post-operative evidence with clinical protocols for parental support and guidance.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 21, 2026
Create a Reminder21-09-2026 15:00 21-09-2026 16:00 35 From Questions to Confidence: Supporting Parents' Understanding of Frenectomy Infant frenectomy is increasingly discussed in the context of breastfeeding difficulties and oral functional concerns, yet parents are often exposed to inconsistent information, variable clinical recommendations, and polarized perspectives. This presentation is designed to assist professionals in supporting parental understanding of the clinical rationale, assessment process, and perioperative considerations surrounding frenectomy in infants. This presentation will review the diagnostic process, including functional assessment, clinical indicators, and the role of multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers. The presentation will outline current approaches to infant frenectomy, describing procedural techniques while incorporating a review of the literature to highlight best practices. Postoperative management will be addressed, with discussion of wound care, feeding support, and the rationale for adjunctive therapies when indicated. Throughout the session, common misconceptions and areas of controversy within the literature will be acknowledged, highlighting the importance of individualized assessment and evidence-based counseling. By translating clinical and research findings into accessible, parent-focused education, this presentation aims to promote informed consent, reduce decisional conflict, and enhance parental confidence when considering frenectomy as part of comprehensive infant care. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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Improving Outcomes in Medically Complex Children Through The Treatment of Tongue-Tie
by Scott Siegel, MD, DDS, FACS, FICS, FAAP 60 mins
Over the last 10-15 years there has been an increasing awareness regarding tongue ties and number of procedures being performed have increased dramatically. Many of these procedures have been found to be advantageous in helping those children who have significant medical co-morbidities. Treatment outcomes measure improvement in the areas of feeding, breathing, sleep. and communication. Special emphasis will be placed on the collaborative approach with medical colleagues and understanding the concept of neuroplasticity, especially as it relates to the brain injury population.
Objectives:
1. Explain what constitutes a significant co-morbidity when assessing a child for tongue-tie.
2. Describe how to communicate and collaborate with medical professionals.
3. Describe how to create patient specific/customized treatment protocols for optimal outcomes.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 22, 2026
Create a Reminder22-09-2026 19:00 22-09-2026 20:00 35 Improving Outcomes in Medically Complex Children Through The Treatment of Tongue-Tie Over the last 10-15 years there has been an increasing awareness regarding tongue ties and number of procedures being performed have increased dramatically. Many of these procedures have been found to be advantageous in helping those children who have significant medical co-morbidities. Treatment outcomes measure improvement in the areas of feeding, breathing, sleep. and communication. Special emphasis will be placed on the collaborative approach with medical colleagues and understanding the concept of neuroplasticity, especially as it relates to the brain injury population. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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Oral Motor Assessment and Decision-Making for Infant Frenotomy: A Functional Approach
by Dr Padminee Krishnan 60 minsEffective management of tethered oral tissues in infants requires moving beyond anatomy to a functional, breastfeeding-centered assessment. This presentation offers a structured oral motor evaluation framework for infants aged 0–12 months, integrating neuromotor maturity, intraoral sensory responsiveness, lingual mobility, suck–swallow–breathe coordination, latch mechanics, feeding endurance, airway safety, and maternal feedback.
Participants will learn how to apply a clear clinical decision-making tree to determine when conservative strategies—such as oral motor priming, sensory modulation, positional optimization, and maternal technique adjustments—are sufficient, and when a frenotomy is truly indicated to support breastfeeding outcomes. This session also describes key functional readiness markers that guide optimal timing of release and immediate post-release considerations to stabilize latch, improve tongue cupping, and protect the breastfeeding relationship.
Using case-based reasoning, the presentation illustrates how targeted oral motor therapy can improve function, reduce compensations, and in some cases eliminate the need for surgical intervention. For infants who do undergo release, early functional support strategies are outlined to maximize breastfeeding success and long-term oral development. This practical, evidence-informed framework empowers lactation professionals to counsel families ethically, reduce unnecessary procedures, and provide confident, balanced, and function-driven guidance.Objectives:
1. Describe how to conduct a structured oral motor assessment for infants aged 0–12 months, focusing on functional indicators such as latch mechanics, lingual mobility, sensory responses, and suck–swallow–breathe coordination.
2. Apply a clinical decision-making tree to differentiate when conservative interventions are sufficient and when frenotomy is indicated to support breastfeeding outcomes.
3. List functional readiness markers and early post-release strategies that promote efficient feeding and protect the breastfeeding relationship after frenotomyLive Presentation Schedule Sep 21, 2026
Create a Reminder21-09-2026 13:00 21-09-2026 14:00 35 Oral Motor Assessment and Decision-Making for Infant Frenotomy: A Functional Approach Effective management of tethered oral tissues in infants requires moving beyond anatomy to a functional, breastfeeding-centered assessment. This presentation offers a structured oral motor evaluation framework for infants aged 0–12 months, integrating neuromotor maturity, intraoral sensory responsiveness, lingual mobility, suck–swallow–breathe coordination, latch mechanics, feeding endurance, airway safety, and maternal feedback. Participants will learn how to apply a clear clinical decision-making tree to determine when conservative strategies—such as oral motor priming, sensory modulation, positional optimization, and maternal technique adjustments—are sufficient, and when a frenotomy is truly indicated to support breastfeeding outcomes. This session also describes key functional readiness markers that guide optimal timing of release and immediate post-release considerations to stabilize latch, improve tongue cupping, and protect the breastfeeding relationship. Using case-based reasoning, the presentation illustrates how targeted oral motor therapy can improve function, reduce compensations, and in some cases eliminate the need for surgical intervention. For infants who do undergo release, early functional support strategies are outlined to maximize breastfeeding success and long-term oral development. This practical, evidence-informed framework empowers lactation professionals to counsel families ethically, reduce unnecessary procedures, and provide confident, balanced, and function-driven guidance. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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Post Frenotomy Recovery: Timelines, Expectations, and Clinical Considerations
by Jeanne Pichoff, LOTR, IBCLC 60 mins
Recovery from frenotomy is often stressful for families who are experiencing breastfeeding challenges vs. the "quick fix" that many families wish and hope for. In this presentation, factors influencing the decision to pursue frenotomy and considerations for the lactation professional who is guiding families in the recovery process are explored. Timelines for recovery and the unique role of the lactation professional in conjuction with other members of the multi disciplinary team will be reviewed. Learn about overlapping symptoms/systems to consider when guiding families, strategies to support recovery post op, and explore brief case studies to illustrate concepts of practice in the "real world" vs. ideal scenarios.
Objectives:
1. Describe common causes of stress/areas of difficulty in recovery post frenotomy. 2. List various roles of the lactation professional in supporting families during the recovery process post frenotomy.
3. Describe the timeline for recovery from frenotomy and overlapping infant/maternal factors that influence recovery.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 23, 2026
Create a Reminder23-09-2026 19:00 23-09-2026 20:00 35 Post Frenotomy Recovery: Timelines, Expectations, and Clinical Considerations Recovery from frenotomy is often stressful for families who are experiencing breastfeeding challenges vs. the "quick fix" that many families wish and hope for. In this presentation, factors influencing the decision to pursue frenotomy and considerations for the lactation professional who is guiding families in the recovery process are explored. Timelines for recovery and the unique role of the lactation professional in conjuction with other members of the multi disciplinary team will be reviewed. Learn about overlapping symptoms/systems to consider when guiding families, strategies to support recovery post op, and explore brief case studies to illustrate concepts of practice in the "real world" vs. ideal scenarios. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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Supporting Informed Decision Making for Tongue-Tie in a Trauma Sensitive Manner
by Johanna Sargeant, BA, BEd, IBCLC 75 mins
This presentation addresses the critical intersection of trauma awareness and clinical practice in the specific context of frenotomy discussions for new parents. Recognizing the implications of the high prevalence of trauma within our clientele group, we will explore how we can practically adjust consultations to deal with this reality, using three compelling case studies to illustrate best practices. The session aims to establish a framework for trauma-informed tongue-tie consultations, exploring possible scripts and immediately implementable strategies. We will examine the ways we can avoid the common triggering and paralyzing pitfalls when discussing frenotomy, illustrating how traditional methods might inadvertently exacerbate parental anxiety, leaving them incapable of moving forward with confidence.
Additionally, this session will explore the necessity for self-reflection of personal biases when discussing the existing evidence surrounding tongue tie, focusing on how to ethically communicate information while respecting parental autonomy.
Ultimately, participants will leave with practical tools and strategies that aim to empower vulnerable families, allowing them to engage in informed, ethical decision-making, while equipping them with the knowledge necessary to overcome decision paralysis.Objectives:
1. List the six core principles to trauma-informed practice, and explore the multitude of ways that this awareness is vital for tongue-tie discussions.
2. Explain ways in which traditional consultations can trigger a traumatised client, and simple alternatives that we should all consistently employ.
3. Create an ethical framework for ways that we can provide relevant tongue-tie information without overwhelming clients.
4. List strategies that can be applied during a consult to assist clients in moving past decision-making paralysis and towards an informed, empowered decision.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 14, 2026
Create a Reminder14-09-2026 15:00 14-09-2026 16:15 35 Supporting Informed Decision Making for Tongue-Tie in a Trauma Sensitive Manner This presentation addresses the critical intersection of trauma awareness and clinical practice in the specific context of frenotomy discussions for new parents. Recognizing the implications of the high prevalence of trauma within our clientele group, we will explore how we can practically adjust consultations to deal with this reality, using three compelling case studies to illustrate best practices. The session aims to establish a framework for trauma-informed tongue-tie consultations, exploring possible scripts and immediately implementable strategies. We will examine the ways we can avoid the common triggering and paralyzing pitfalls when discussing frenotomy, illustrating how traditional methods might inadvertently exacerbate parental anxiety, leaving them incapable of moving forward with confidence. Additionally, this session will explore the necessity for self-reflection of personal biases when discussing the existing evidence surrounding tongue tie, focusing on how to ethically communicate information while respecting parental autonomy. Ultimately, participants will leave with practical tools and strategies that aim to empower vulnerable families, allowing them to engage in informed, ethical decision-making, while equipping them with the knowledge necessary to overcome decision paralysis. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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Supporting Release of Tension & Compensations Post Frenectomy: An Osteopathic Approach
by Joanna Strybosch, Osteopath, Advanced Pediatric Osteopath, IBCLC 60 mins
Frenectomy for ankyloglossia can be a pivotal intervention for improving tongue mobility and feeding efficiency; however, it represents only one component of a broader rehabilitation process. Tongue tied infants often develop compensatory patterns that impact the tongue, orofacial muscles and anterior fascial system, which may persist post-procedure if not addressed. Osteopathic treatment can play a valuable role in supporting functional integration following frenectomy by addressing residual myofascial tension, supporting optimal tongue mobility, and improving feeding mechanics.
This presentation explores the anatomical and functional impact of tongue-tie on anterior fascial connections throughout the body, highlighting how targeted myofascial release post-frenectomy may enhance feeding efficiency, infant comfort, and overall movement patterns. The role of gentle intra-oral osteopathic techniques in reducing scar tissue contracture and supporting optimal tongue function will be discussed. Common compensations in breastfeeding position and latch seen with ankyloglossia will also be considered, with practical tips to support improved biomechanics for both infant and parent post-frenectomy.Objectives:
1. Describe the relationship between ankyloglossia and anterior fascial connections, and how release of myofascial tension post-frenectomy can improve sucking dynamics.
2. Explain the role of intra-oral work post-frenectomy in reducing scar tissue contracture and improving tongue mobility.
3. Describe common compensations in position and latch that can be addressed in the breastfed infant post-frenectomy.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 22, 2026
Create a Reminder22-09-2026 21:00 22-09-2026 22:00 35 Supporting Release of Tension & Compensations Post Frenectomy: An Osteopathic Approach Frenectomy for ankyloglossia can be a pivotal intervention for improving tongue mobility and feeding efficiency; however, it represents only one component of a broader rehabilitation process. Tongue tied infants often develop compensatory patterns that impact the tongue, orofacial muscles and anterior fascial system, which may persist post-procedure if not addressed. Osteopathic treatment can play a valuable role in supporting functional integration following frenectomy by addressing residual myofascial tension, supporting optimal tongue mobility, and improving feeding mechanics. This presentation explores the anatomical and functional impact of tongue-tie on anterior fascial connections throughout the body, highlighting how targeted myofascial release post-frenectomy may enhance feeding efficiency, infant comfort, and overall movement patterns. The role of gentle intra-oral osteopathic techniques in reducing scar tissue contracture and supporting optimal tongue function will be discussed. Common compensations in breastfeeding position and latch seen with ankyloglossia will also be considered, with practical tips to support improved biomechanics for both infant and parent post-frenectomy. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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The Current Understanding of Tongue-Tie: Review of the Research
by Sharon Smart, PhD, BSc, PGCert Higher Education Innovative Learning, CPSP, FHEA 60 mins
Ankylofrenula including ankyloglossia (tongue tie) remains a highly debated condition across pediatric healthcare, with ongoing uncertainty on assessment, diagnosis, management, and potential future issues. Over the past decade, expanding research has challenged traditional anatomical definitions, questioned earlier outcome assumptions, and highlighted the importance of functional assessment and interdisciplinary care.
This presentation provides a critical review of contemporary peer reviewed research examining the anatomy, classification, assessment, and management of tongue tie across infancy and early childhood. Current evidence regarding associations with feeding, speech, oral motor function, and caregiver experience will be examined. Methodological strengths and limitations within the literature will be explored, including variability in diagnostic criteria, outcome measures, and study design. The session will synthesize recent systematic reviews, cohort studies, and practice guidelines to clarify what is currently supported by evidence, where uncertainty remains, and how research findings translate into ethical, family centred clinical decision making. Implications for clinical practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and future research priorities will be discussed to support attendees in navigating this complex and evolving field using evidence informed frameworks.Objectives:
1. Describe contemporary anatomical and functional understandings of ankyloglossia as reflected in current research.
2. Describe the evidence regarding feeding, speech, and oral motor outcomes associated with tongue tie and frenectomy.
3. Explain how research findings can be applied to evidence informed, family centred and interprofessional clinical decision making.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 22, 2026
Create a Reminder22-09-2026 23:00 23-09-2026 00:00 35 The Current Understanding of Tongue-Tie: Review of the Research Ankylofrenula including ankyloglossia (tongue tie) remains a highly debated condition across pediatric healthcare, with ongoing uncertainty on assessment, diagnosis, management, and potential future issues. Over the past decade, expanding research has challenged traditional anatomical definitions, questioned earlier outcome assumptions, and highlighted the importance of functional assessment and interdisciplinary care. This presentation provides a critical review of contemporary peer reviewed research examining the anatomy, classification, assessment, and management of tongue tie across infancy and early childhood. Current evidence regarding associations with feeding, speech, oral motor function, and caregiver experience will be examined. Methodological strengths and limitations within the literature will be explored, including variability in diagnostic criteria, outcome measures, and study design. The session will synthesize recent systematic reviews, cohort studies, and practice guidelines to clarify what is currently supported by evidence, where uncertainty remains, and how research findings translate into ethical, family centred clinical decision making. Implications for clinical practice, interdisciplinary collaboration, and future research priorities will be discussed to support attendees in navigating this complex and evolving field using evidence informed frameworks. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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When Release Has to Wait: Supporting the Tongue-tied Baby Until They're Ready for Frenectomy
by Tine Greve, Midwife, IBCLC 60 mins
When a tongue-tie has been identified, a pre-release treatment plan must be made. For the best possible result of a togue-tie release, the baby needs to be ready for the procedure. Ensuring good nutritional status for the baby prior to a release is important, in addition to assessing (breast)feeding functions and dysfunctions the mother-baby dyad may struggle with. Mother’s milk nutrition should be supported whenever possible. This presentation will make suggestions for support and (breast)feeding counselling based on the individualized plan for the baby. We will look at factors that contribute to achieving the best possible outcomes of a release and recommended (breast)feeding plans for optimizing the chance of success.
Objectives:
1. List the indicators that a baby and/or their family are not ready for tongue-tie release.
2. Describe how to ensure good nutritional status in baby with feeding challenges due to oral restriction while waiting for tongue-tie release.
3. Describe a multi-disciplinary treatment plan that can be put in place to support a baby/family’s readiness for tongue-tie release and how to evaluate when readiness has been achieved.Live Presentation Schedule Sep 23, 2026
Create a Reminder23-09-2026 17:00 23-09-2026 18:00 35 When Release Has to Wait: Supporting the Tongue-tied Baby Until They're Ready for Frenectomy When a tongue-tie has been identified, a pre-release treatment plan must be made. For the best possible result of a togue-tie release, the baby needs to be ready for the procedure. Ensuring good nutritional status for the baby prior to a release is important, in addition to assessing (breast)feeding functions and dysfunctions the mother-baby dyad may struggle with. Mother’s milk nutrition should be supported whenever possible. This presentation will make suggestions for support and (breast)feeding counselling based on the individualized plan for the baby. We will look at factors that contribute to achieving the best possible outcomes of a release and recommended (breast)feeding plans for optimizing the chance of success. GOLD Tongue-Tie Online Symposium false DD/MM/YYYY
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