The most important step once a diagnosis has been confirmed is to be put in touch with a specialist cleft lip and palate team, at a hospital designated for cleft treatment. Details can be seen by following the link at the foot of this page.

Once a referral has been made by your obstetrician or midwife, someone from the team should make contact with your and arrange to see you. Nearer the time that your baby is due, you may also be invited to meet other members of the team at the hospital.

Never be afraid to ask questions. Sometimes it helps to write questions down before meeting with the cleft team. You may find it useful to contact CLAPA and ask for some further information. CLAPA may also be able to help your obstetrician or GP by providing contact details for your nearest cleft centre if they are not readily available.

Many parents of babies born with clefts find it helpful and comforting to talk to someone who has experience of a child with a cleft. CLAPA can help and will try to put you in touch with another family.