Why Is My Baby Making a Clicking Sound While Breastfeeding? Causes and Solutions
If you’ve noticed your baby making a clicking sound during breastfeeding, you’re certainly not alone. Many parents hear this noise and wonder whether it’s normal or a sign that something isn’t quite right. In this article, you’ll discover the common reasons for clicking sounds while breastfeeding, what they mean, and when you should seek professional advice.
What Does a Clicking Sound Mean When Breastfeeding?
A clicking sound during breastfeeding usually means your baby is repeatedly losing and re-establishing suction at the breast. This can happen for various reasons, from normal feeding adjustments to issues that might need your attention.
Common Causes of Clicking Sounds While Breastfeeding
1. Fast Let-Down or Oversupply
If you have a strong milk flow, your baby might click as they try to keep up with the rapid let-down. Briefly breaking suction helps them manage the fast pace of milk.
2. Shallow or Improper Latch
A deep, secure latch is essential for comfortable and effective breastfeeding. If your baby’s latch is too shallow or not well-positioned, air can enter their mouth, causing that clicking noise.
3. Oral Restrictions (Tongue-Tie or Lip-Tie)
Conditions such as tongue-tie or lip-tie can make it difficult for your baby to maintain a good seal on the breast. This often leads to clicking, and you might also notice other signs such as prolonged feeds or slow weight gain.
4. Learning to Feed
Newborns and younger babies are still developing the coordination needed for sucking, swallowing, and breathing. Infrequent clicking sounds are sometimes common as they practise and improve these skills.
5. Other Factors
Teething, mouth soreness, ear infections, or anatomical differences in the mouth can also cause your baby to lose suction and make clicking sounds.
Should You Be Concerned About Clicking While Breastfeeding?
Occasional clicking is often normal, especially if your baby is gaining weight well, seems satisfied after feeds, and you aren’t experiencing nipple pain. However, persistent clicking - especially if paired with symptoms like poor weight gain, fussiness at the breast, or sore nipples - may indicate a problem that needs your attention and support from an IBCLC (Lactation Consultant).
What Can You Do About Clicking Sounds During Breastfeeding?
1. Check the Latch
Make sure your baby has a deep latch. Their mouth should cover more of the areola below the nipple than above, and their lips should be flanged outwards.
2. Adjust Your Feeding Position
Try different breastfeeding positions to see which helps your baby maintain a better latch and reduces clicking.
3. Manage a Fast Let-Down
If you have a strong let-down, try reclining while nursing or expressing a little milk before latching your baby to slow the flow.
4. Seek Professional Help
If you suspect tongue-tie, lip-tie, or other oral issues, consult a lactation consultant or your GP. They can assess your baby’s mouth and feeding technique and recommend solutions.
When Should You Seek Help?
You should get professional advice if:
Clicking is frequent and persistent
Your baby isn’t gaining weight as expected
Feeds are very long or your baby seems unsatisfied
You experience nipple pain, cracks, or bleeding
Unsure and need some Support?
Book a Virtual Breastfeeding Consultation
If you’re concerned about clicking sounds or any other breastfeeding challenges, don’t wait to get support. Book a virtual breastfeeding consultation today for expert, personalised advice from the comfort of your home. A professional can assess your baby’s latch, oral function, and feeding patterns, helping you resolve issues quickly and confidently.
