For routine bleeding management following a frenulotomy, a gauze swab will be placed in baby’s mouth (over the tongue). This usually stops bleeding within 1-2 minutes. You will be encouraged to feed your baby in the easiest way (breast/ bottle, etc) as this provides comfort and compresses the wound.
For unusual bleeds, I would let you know if I am concerned at the level of bleeding and would guide you through any assistance needed:
1. Apply the gauze for longer- ensuring wound is compressed and everyone remains calm
2. Apply a different gauze moistened with iced saline (water) to encourage vasoconstriction
3. Apply the haemostat dressing or haemostat powder and consider calling a paramedic for additional support
Approx 1:1000 babies bleeding will continue for up to 20 minutes
Approx 1:3000 babies will require admission to hospital requiring medication such as adrenaline or tranexamic acid to control bleeding
Approx 1:60000 babies will require additional surgery such as electrocautery or suturing in theatre to stem bleeding.
Dream Feeds Ltd is registered with the CQC to complete frenulotomy in community and home settings however if there is any reason why frenulotomy cannot be completed safely, you will be referred to a hospital setting. Please disclose if there are any genetic or clotting disorders in the family, unexplained bruising or bleeding, unusual anatomy, or if your baby has not had either oral or injection of vitamin K. These will need to be discussed in further detail on an individual basis.
Safety is absolute priority.