Jennifer:  Until this baby has the palate repair done, he will probably not 
be very successful at the breast.  Hopefully, he is already working with a 
therapist (usually speech) to help with feedings.  I would suggest trying 
the baby with a Haberman feeder instead of a syringe to help the baby 
continue to mature his suck.  Remember, a baby learns nothing about co-
ordinating suck, swallow, breathe on a syringe.  There is also a higher 
risk of aspiration as it is harder to "pace" a syringe.  Haberman feeders 
were designed for use by a baby with a cleft, as it is easy to help the 
baby to "choose" the milk flow that is most comfortable for him.  Of 
course, I would also encourage the mother to continue pumping in order to 
maintain her milk supply and to also minimize formula use.

Pam Hirsch, RN,BSN,IBCLC
Clinical Lead, Lactation Services
Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
Barrington, IL   USA

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