Feeding Your Baby in the First Days After Birth

Feeding can be a challenge during the first days after your baby is born. Depending on the severity of the cleft, newborns may not be able to generate the suction needed for feeding, which means that, unfortunately, breastfeeding is usually not possible.

To help with this, babies are given a specially made palatal plate (also called a feeding plate) shortly after birth. While the baby still won’t be able to suck even with the plate, it can help with breathing during feeding and offer some relief.

With a bit of patience and creativity, you can try out various feeding techniques with your baby to ensure they feed with pleasure and get full. There are special breastfeeding assistance systems where the baby lies at your breast while feeding. There are also a variety of nipples and bottles specifically developed for babies with weak suction or cleft-related conditions. Some babies even feed well using a regular nipple on a standard bottle — perhaps with a slightly enlarged hole. Try out different options — your baby will let you know what works best.

Most midwives have experience with babies who struggle to suck and can offer helpful advice and support for you and your child. Ask your OB-GYN or your maternity team for a prescription for a breast pump — this will usually allow you to borrow one from a pharmacy free of charge for several months.

This website provides excellent explanations on feeding methods:
Milchwiese.de
And here you can find additional help and advice:
Arbeitsgemeinschaft Freier Stillgruppen (German Association of Independent Breastfeeding Groups)
or the German Association of Lactation Consultants (IBCLC e.V.)

You will need to find out what your baby prefers. There is no single right way — only the way that works for you, your child, and your life situation. And even if you choose to use formula, you are still a good mother!