Is access to NHS tongue tie services equitable for mothers and babies in the UK?

Abstract

NHS tongue tie service provision throughout the UK has previously been described as a ‘post code lottery’. A 2021 survey was conducted, with the aim to provide an update to a 2016 survey of tongue tie services in the UK. A total of 179 trusts or health boards were approached with similar survey questions to a 2016 survey and achieved a response rate of 72% (n=130). There were similarities to the findings of the previous National Childbirth Trust survey, although there was an overall increase in NHS services provided. There is still variation in terms of the lead professional involved in delivering tongue tie services at the point of contact with the mother and baby, the criteria used for referral, the waiting time for assessment and treatment and the follow-up processes. Evidence supporting most aspects of care is limited, which causes much professional discussion. The provision of NHS tongue tie services is still a ‘post code lottery’ and inequitable for mothers and babies.