IBCLC Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Excelling in Your Lactation Consultant Certification!

Nipple pain and clicking sounds during breastfeeding can often indicate issues related to oral anatomy and function in the infant, particularly in the case of lip or tongue ties. A tongue tie (ankyloglossia) refers to a congenital condition where the band of tissue connecting the baby's tongue to the floor of the mouth is shorter than usual, which can limit the tongue's movement. This restriction can adversely affect the infant's ability to latch properly and efficiently, leading to pain for the breastfeeding parent and could cause clicking noises as the baby struggles to create an adequate seal around the nipple.

When there is a lack of proper mobility of the tongue, the infant may not be able to draw milk effectively, which can lead to frustrations for both the infant and the parent. Moreover, the clicking sound often occurs when the infant loses suction due to the inadequate latch and then re-establishes it, which can indicate that the mouth is not positioned correctly on the breast. Thus, assessing for a lip or tongue tie is crucial in addressing the underlying issues signaled by nipple pain and clicking. Recognizing this condition is vital for ensuring successful breastfeeding and alleviating discomfort.

The presence of a cleft palate, while it can also cause challenges in breastfeeding, is characterized by more distinctive