FEEDING VIDEO FOR CLEFT LIP & PALATE |BEST CLEFT CENTRE|DR MATHEW PC |HOW TO FEED CLEFT PALATE BABY

Summary

This video script provides detailed guidance on feeding techniques for babies with cleft conditions, including cleft lip, soft palate, and cleft palate. It explores various feeding devices, such as the Haberman feeder, Mead Johnson cleft palate system, and specialized bottle nipples, helping caregivers find the best options for each infant. The script emphasizes the importance of positioning the baby correctly, using rhythm with the baby's suck-swallow reflex, and feeding in short, frequent sessions to prevent fatigue. Tips for creating a better seal and tracking the baby's intake are also included to ensure successful feeding.

Takeaways

• 😀 Babies with bilateral cleft lip or cleft palate can feed directly from the breast or bottle if they have an intact alveolus and palate.
• 😀 If a mother has difficulty creating a good seal while breastfeeding, a breast shield may be helpful.
• 😀 Babies with a cleft of the soft palate can breastfeed with the help of a nipple shield or bottle with adaptations.
• 😀 Specialized feeding devices, like the Haberman feeder by Medela, can help babies with cleft lip and palate feed effectively.
• 😀 To use the Haberman feeder, position the valve membrane correctly, screw the nipple on tightly, and squeeze the nipple to fill it with milk before feeding.
• 😀 A regular nipple with a cross-cut can also be used to control milk flow for babies with clefts.
• 😀 The Mead Johnson cleft palate system involves gently squeezing the bottle rhythmically in sync with the baby's suck-swallow pattern.
• 😀 Using a Pigeon nipple, the white disc should face the bottle, and the air vent should be positioned toward the baby’s nose.
• 😀 Swaddling the baby helps focus their attention and allows better control during feeding.
• 😀 Maintain an upright position while feeding the baby, and make sure the bottle rests comfortably on the baby's tongue and lower lip to help with rhythm.
• 😀 Feedings should last no longer than 30 minutes to avoid tiring the baby. Frequent feedings are preferred over prolonged sessions.
• 😀 Tracking the amount of liquid consumed and regularly weighing the baby (every five days) is important for monitoring progress.

Q & A

What is the main challenge when feeding babies with a cleft lip or palate?

The main challenge is helping babies feed effectively due to their cleft lip or palate. Specialized feeding techniques and devices are often required to ensure the baby can get enough nourishment.

Can babies with a bilateral cleft lip and intact alveolus feed directly from the breast?

Yes, babies with a bilateral cleft lip and intact alveolus can feed directly from the breast or a bottle, although some may need help making a good seal.

What role does a breast shield play for babies with a cleft lip?

A breast shield can help babies with a cleft lip make a better seal while breastfeeding, aiding in more effective feeding.

How do babies with a cleft of the soft palate feed?

Babies with a cleft of the soft palate can be breastfed using a nipple shield or bottle-fed using a special nipple that has a small cross cut to control the flow rate.

What is the best approach for feeding babies with clefts of the hard and soft palate, or bilateral cleft lip and palate?

A trial-and-error approach is necessary to find the best feeding device for each infant. Specialized feeders, like the Haberman feeder, are commonly used.

How do you use the Haberman feeder by Medela?

To use the Haberman feeder, place the valve membrane in the nipple with the white side facing the nipple, screw it on tightly, then turn it back one click looser. Squeeze the nipple and turn the feeder upside down to fill it with milk before feeding.

What should you do before feeding an infant with a cleft?

Before feeding, swaddle the infant to help them concentrate and make it easier to control the feeding device. The baby should be held in an upright position.

What feeding options are available for babies with a cleft palate?

There are several specialized feeding options, such as the Haberman feeder, Mead Johnson cleft palate system, Pigeon nipple, and even a monojet syringe. Each option requires careful handling and may need some adaptation to suit the baby.

How should you hold the bottle when feeding an infant with a cleft?

Hold the bottle horizontally to the baby’s mouth and allow the baby to latch. The weight of the bottle should rest on the baby's tongue and lower lip to help the baby maintain a proper suck-swallow rhythm.

What should you monitor when feeding a baby with a cleft lip or palate?

It's important to monitor the baby’s feeding time, not exceeding 30 minutes per session. Additionally, keep track of the amount of liquid consumed and weigh the baby every five days to ensure proper growth.