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Practical Guidance and Support for Feeding Your Baby

August 21, 2023 No comments yet

Feeding a newborn is one of the most important parts of early care. For most babies born with a cleft lip and/or palate, it is entirely possible to feed well and thrive, but it can take a little extra knowledge and support to get there.

Our Clinical Nurse Specialists and Midwives work closely with families to find the best approach for each baby. Here’s what to expect, and how you can feel confident about your baby’s feeding journey.

Understanding Feeding Challenges

Babies feed by creating suction while they suck, breathe, and swallow in a coordinated way. A cleft in the lip or palate can make it harder to maintain that suction. This doesn’t mean feeding isn’t possible — it simply means some adjustments in technique or equipment may help.

Breastfeeding and Cleft Conditions

  • Cleft lip only: Many babies can breastfeed successfully. Positioning the cleft under the breast tissue often helps, and supporting the breast with your hand can maintain a good latch.

  • Cleft palate: Feeding directly from the breast may be more difficult. In many cases, breastfeeding is combined with expressed breast milk given via a specialist bottle, cup, or syringe.

Our team can also loan a breast pump free of charge for up to twelve months to support milk expression.

Bottle Feeding and Specialist Equipment

For babies with a cleft lip only, a standard bottle and faster-flow teat may be all that’s needed.
If the palate is affected, a soft, squeezable bottle with a larger orthodontic teat is often recommended. This allows you to help the milk flow by gently squeezing the bottle while your baby suckles.

Your Clinical Nurse Specialist will supply your first set of equipment and show you how to use it. Additional bottles and teats can be ordered through the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (CLAPA).

Troubleshooting Common Issues

  • Feeding difficulties: If a baby struggles to feed, our team assesses their skills and may suggest high-calorie milk or temporary tube feeding.

  • Regurgitation through the nose: This can happen with a cleft palate. Turning your baby onto their tummy and gently clearing the milk can help.

  • Dry lips and gums: Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or nipple cream.

  • White patch on the palate: This is usually harmless and will resolve on its own.

Feeding After Surgery

Babies are encouraged to feed as soon as they are awake and alert following lip or palate repair surgery. It can take a few days for them to adjust to their repaired mouth, but long-term feeding issues are rare.

Ongoing Support

Your Clinical Nurse Specialist will continue to provide home visits and phone advice until your baby’s first surgery — and remain available for support as your child grows.

If you have concerns about feeding at any stage, don’t wait — reach out to your cleft team for guidance.