Is it possible to breastfeed?

A baby with a cleft lip can usually breastfeed. Sometimes there is difficulty in forming a seal between the breast and lip, but depending on the type of cleft, the breast can mould to the defect. A hissing sound usually means air is entering the mouth so reposition baby on the breast. To maintain the nipple postion on the back of he tongue it may help to hold the breast in the mouth. Small changes in vacuum will result in the nipple slowly moving towards the front of the mouth, resulting in ineffective feeding.

You may need to try with your baby in different positions and seek support from those experienced with feeding children with clefts. A good flow of milk helps and this can be encouraged by massaging the breast or using a breast pump. Your midwife will be able to help with this aspect. Do remember that some babies without a cleft may also have difficulties breastfeeding successfully.
There are some booklets written specifically for mothers who wish to breastfeed their baby with a cleft.

What about bottle feeding?

Again the seal is required at the lips in order for a baby to feed efficiently. Some babies feed well with an ordinary bottle and a soft teat, although the hole may need to be enlarged or a new one made. This can be done by using a sterilised needle or paperclip. Heat the tip of the needle or paperclip in a flame until it's red hot. Make sure the needle is in the flame for at least one minute so that the natural carbon formed on the metal during heating is burned off. If it is not burned off, the needle will leave a black mark on the teat that is hard to remove.
It is important that assisted feeding using a soft bottle only happens when the baby is sucking. Squeezing the bottle during rest periods may cause the baby to cough. Your nurse specialist will help you identify the frequency of help that your baby needs.

What about winding?

All babies require winding and your baby will usually let you know when he or she is uncomfortable. If the milk flow is correct, your baby will have no more wind than normal. If your baby appears to be windy try stopping 2 or 3 times during the feed to burp the baby.

How to feed after a lip operation?

Feeding may recommence by breast or bottle. However some surgeons prefer you to feed your baby using a cup and spoon type method for a while. Also some teams feel that sucking on a dummy may damage the repair. Do ask for the advice of your cleft team so that your baby can get used to any changes before the operation.