July is National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month. The observance was created to raise awareness and increase understanding of craniofacial conditions such as cleft lip and palate.
Approximately 7,000 babies are born each year in the United States with a cleft lip or palate; both occur when a baby’s lip or palate does not form completely during pregnancy. A cleft lip happens when the tissue that makes the upper lip does not join completely and leaves a gap. A cleft palate forms when the tissue that makes up the palate or the roof of the mouth does not fuse completely, resulting in an opening.
A child born with a cleft lip or palate may experience:
- Difficulty with feedings
- Trouble speaking
- Chronic ear infections
- Hearing problems
- Dental problems
The exact reason why a cleft lip or palate happens is unknown; however, research suggests the following factors may increase the risk:
- Genetics
- A lack of folic acid during pregnancy
- Taking certain medications, such as antiseizure medications during pregnancy
- Smoking cigarettes during pregnancy
- Obesity during pregnancy
- Drinking alcohol during pregnancy
- Diabetes during pregnancy
The risk of developing a cleft palate or lip may be lowered by taking prenatal vitamins, avoiding alcohol and tobacco use, eating a healthy diet, managing diabetes, or receiving genetic counseling.
A cleft lip or palate may be detected during pregnancy using prenatal ultrasound or noticed at birth. Treatment may involve surgeries to correct the cleft and improve its appearance. A doctor may also recommend lactation or feeding support, dental treatments, hearing aids, speech therapy, or mental health support.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.