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Mom's Milk Matters
Breastfeeding a Baby With Cleft Lip or Cleft Palate By Gwen Morrison
According to Archambault, these are the benefits of breastfeeding a baby who has a cleft lip and/or palate:
- Breast milk provides immunities against infection, especially ear infections, for a baby who will have major surgery.
- Human milk is less irritating to the mucous membranes of the nose and the gastro-intestinal system than formula.
- Breast milk absorbs more readily.
- Breastfeeding encourages proper development of the baby's mouth and face.
- The pliability of the breast can help to create a better seal and make it easier for the baby to return to the breast sooner after surgery.
- Breastfeeding allows Baby to suck for comfort.
- Breastfeeding decreases Mother's bleeding and allows her to be able to care for a special needs baby.
"Learning the dance of breastfeeding is often difficult for mothers and babies," says Archambault. "The support of knowledgeable professionals and family and friends who have had similar situations is invaluable."
