This is done to make sure there is not a cleft of the soft palate.
Standard part of routine newborn exam.  IT is not a suck assessment in
the terms that lactation consultants use.  I was referred a baby the
other day that was never assessed, came for consult - and there it was! 

-----Original Message-----
From: Lactation Information and Discussion
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of KDunning
Sent: Tuesday, November 20, 2007 11:09 PM
Subject: checking a babies suck right after birth

hi, i am wondering if this is a common practice around the world. it is
a huge pet peeve of mine. even some of the the midwives here (western
washington  state) "check the babies  suck"  by sticking there gloved
finger  in the babies mouth before they  get to breast. 
katie dunning IBCLC LLLL central kitsap

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