• Cleft lip is a separation in the upper lip while a cleft palate is a separation in the middle of the palate.
• Cleft lip and palate can present challenges for a baby including problems with feeding, hearing, dental development and speech.

Concerns of cleft lip and palate

Hearing

Cleft palate can sometimes affect the middle ear, and therefore interfere with a child’s hearing. Fluid can build up in the middle ear, causing temporary hearing loss or recurrent ear infections. Sometimes tubes may need to be inserted to drain the fluid from the ear.

Feeding

It may be difficult for a baby with cleft lip or palate to suck or feed. An occupational therapist or speech and language pathologist can help to give parents tips on how to make the feeding process easier.

Speech

The palate is important for normal speech development. Many children need speech therapy after cleft palate is repaired.