With the birth of a child who has a cleft lip, palate, or both a
cleft lip and palate, comes many uncertainties regarding the
cause, effect and repair of the cleft. The mother may also be
concerned about her ability to care for and feed her baby. These
uncertainties can affect the early bonding phases of parenting.
Breastfeeding a child born with a cleft lip or palate assures
that mother and baby spend lots of cuddling time together. If
breastfeeding is initiated right after birth, closeness between
mother and baby will be enhanced. Mothers and babies find the
skin to skin contact during breastfeeding calming and
comforting. The soft breast is ideal for the baby's mouth. The
flexibility of the breast allows it to be molded to compensate
for abnormalities of the baby's lip or mouth. The baby has more
control over the flow of milk and the position of the breast in
his/her mouth. Early practice helps baby imprint on the breast.
due to milk leakage into the nose is a common problem when there
is an opening in the