Many mothers look forward to breastfeeding as a way to nourish their baby and create a loving bond. So, when you learn that your newborn has a cleft lip or palate, it’s natural to feel worried or unsure about how breastfeeding will go. You may even be told that breastfeeding won’t be possible. The good news is that, depending on the type and size of the cleft, many mothers are able to breastfeed partially—or even fully. This guide will help you understand what a cleft is, how it may affect feeding, and how you can nourish your baby with love and care.

What is a Cleft?

A cleft is a gap or opening in the lip or palate (roof of the mouth) that develops while your baby is in the womb. A cleft lip is split in the upper lip, and a cleft palate is a hole in the roof of the mouth, which may or may not extend to the gums. About half of babies with clefts have both a cleft lip and palate.

How a Cleft May Affect Feeding

Breastfeeding may look different with a cleft, but that doesn’t mean it can’t work. Common challenges include:

  • Trouble Latching: Your baby might find it harder to latch onto the breast because of the gap in the lip or palate.

  • Forming a Seal: With a cleft lip alone, your baby’s ability to latch and transfer milk is less compromised, but they may have difficulty forming a good seal on the breast. 

  • Suction: If your baby has a cleft palate, they might struggle to generate enough suction to transfer milk effectively. 

  • Milk Spilling: Milk may spill through the cleft or nose, making it more challenging to get enough milk.

How to Breastfeed with a Cleft

While breastfeeding a baby with a cleft may take extra effort and creative strategies, many mothers find that it can be a rewarding experience. Here are some helpful tips:

Find the Right Breastfeeding Position

Experiment with different positions to see what works best for your baby. Feeding in more upright positions may help reduce milk from entering their nasal passages.

Support the Breast

Gently shaping your breast or using your finger or thumb to fill any gaps in the lip can help your baby form a better seal and make breastfeeding more effective.

Use a Nipple Shield

If your baby is struggling to latch, a nipple shield may help. Make sure to talk to a lactation consultant before using one to make sure it’s the right choice for you.

Stay Patient and Positive

Breastfeeding might take time and practice. Be patient with yourself and your little one. Every small step is progress, and every drop of milk is a gift.

Supplementing Your Baby’s Nutrition

Sometimes breastfeeding alone may not be enough. Here are a few ways you can make sure your baby gets the nutrition they need for healthy growth:

  • Supplementing at the Breast: If your baby needs more milk while breastfeeding, a supplemental nursing system can help. This device allows you to give extra milk while breastfeeding.

  • Pumping: If your baby has trouble latching, you can express your milk and feed it using a bottle, feeding tube, or cup. This enables your baby to receive the benefits of breast milk and helps keep them healthy.

  • Special Needs Bottle: If your baby is bottle feeding, there are special bottles designed for babies with clefts. These bottles make it easier to form a good seal and feed comfortably.

Breastfeeding After Surgery

Surgery to repair your baby’s cleft lip or palate can also affect breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor or surgeon about when it will be safe to resume feeding at the breast. While waiting, expressing your milk can help maintain your supply. After surgery, your baby may need some time to relearn breastfeeding, but being familiar with nursing beforehand can make it easier for them to adjust once they are ready.

  • Cleft Lip Repair: This is usually done between 3-6 months of age.

  • Cleft Palate Repair: This surgery happens later, typically between 9-18 months of age, when your baby has grown more.

Caring for Yourself

As a new mother, it’s important to take care of yourself too. You deserve love and support as you care for your baby. Here are a few reminders:

Rest When You Can

Sleep and relaxation are key to keeping your energy up.

Eat Healthy Foods

A well-balanced diet will help you stay strong and healthy. Staying well hydrated helps your recovery and supports milk production.

Seek Support and Resources

You are not alone in this journey! There are many organizations, support groups, and online communities where you can connect with families of babies with clefts. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

Get Professional Help

Lactation consultants are infant feeding specialists who can help with more than just breastfeeding. They can help with pumping, establishing an alternative feeding plan if needed, and provide you with invaluable support to overcome any feeding challenges.

When Breastfeeding Isn’t Possible

While many mothers of babies born with a cleft can successfully breastfeed with the right support, it’s important to acknowledge that for some, breastfeeding may not be possible. If your baby’s cleft makes breastfeeding too difficult or unsafe, or if your milk supply is not sufficient, know that you are still giving your baby the best care possible. There are other ways to ensure your baby gets the nourishment they need, such as using expressed breast milk, donor milk, or formula.

Remember, nurturing your baby goes beyond breastfeeding—holding, skin-to-skin contact, and gentle touch are all ways to strengthen your bond. What matters most is that you are providing love, comfort, and the best care for your little one.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.