The occasional “tsk” or “pop” sound a baby makes while nursing can be disconcerting for new parents. This clicking, which sometimes sounds like smacking, signals a potential inefficiency in the feeding process. While a momentary click is not a concern, persistent or loud clicking suggests the baby is struggling to maintain the necessary seal for effective milk transfer. Understanding the cause is the first step toward a more comfortable and efficient feeding experience.
Understanding the Clicking Mechanism
The clicking noise results from the baby temporarily breaking the vacuum seal required to draw milk from the breast. When a baby latches, their mouth creates negative pressure, or a vacuum, which is the primary mechanism for milk removal. The seal is formed when the middle part of the baby’s tongue presses against the breast tissue and the palate.
The click occurs when the tongue drops away from the breast or palate, allowing air to rush into the oral cavity and disrupt the seal. This break in suction is often paired with visible dimpling in the baby’s cheeks. Effective feeding requires the baby’s tongue to move independently of the jaw, and anything that compromises this movement can cause the seal to break.
Latch and Positioning Adjustments
Many clicking issues can be resolved by adjusting the baby’s latch and feeding position. A shallow latch is a common cause, making it difficult for the baby to form a deep, lasting seal around the areola. A deep latch requires the baby to take in a large amount of breast tissue, positioning the nipple far back in their mouth.
To encourage a deeper latch, aim for an asymmetrical latch where the baby’s chin touches the breast first and the nose is slightly tipped away. Wait for the baby to open their mouth wide, like a yawn, before quickly bringing them to the breast, aiming the nipple toward the roof of their mouth. Positioning the baby’s body close to yours, in a “tummy-to-tummy” alignment, helps maintain the proper head and neck extension needed for a successful seal.
Laid-back nursing, or reclined positioning, can also be helpful. This position allows gravity to work in your favor, giving the baby more control and encouraging them to root and latch deeply without manual pressure on the back of their head.
Structural and Flow Related Causes
When positioning adjustments do not eliminate the clicking, the cause may relate to the baby’s oral anatomy or the speed of milk flow. A common structural factor is ankyloglossia, or tongue-tie, where a tight band of tissue restricts the tongue’s movement. This limitation prevents the baby’s tongue from elevating sufficiently to maintain the vacuum seal, causing it to snap back and create the clicking sound.
Anatomical variations, such as a highly arched or “bubble” palate, can also make it difficult to form a consistent seal against the breast tissue. This variation can create a space the tongue cannot effectively fill, leading to repeated breaks in suction.
The speed of milk delivery is another factor, particularly in cases of maternal oversupply or a forceful letdown. If milk flows too quickly, the baby may intentionally break the seal to gulp or slow the flow, resulting in the audible click.
Knowing When to Consult an Expert
While occasional clicking is acceptable, persistent clicking accompanied by other symptoms warrants professional evaluation. If you experience pain during nursing or if your baby is not gaining weight as expected, consult an expert. Indicators that the clicking signals inefficient milk transfer include severe nipple pain, cracked nipples, or the baby being fussy and unsatisfied after feeds.
An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is the standard for assessing breastfeeding dynamics. They perform a thorough oral function assessment, evaluate the baby’s latch, and look for signs of restricted tongue movement. An IBCLC helps differentiate between a simple positioning issue and a structural concern like tongue-tie. If a structural issue is suspected, a pediatrician or a pediatric dentist/ENT specializing in oral ties can provide further guidance.