What it means
A birth defect in which the two sides of the upper lip do not fully join early in pregnancy. It can be a small notch or a gap that reaches up into the nose, on one side or both. It often comes with a cleft palateKLEFT PAL-itA birth defect in which the roof of the mouth has an opening because it did not close during development.Full entry , an opening in the roof of the mouth. The lip is usually repaired with surgery in the first months of life.
For the nurse
Before repair, help the parent find a feeding method that works, such as a special bottle or nipple, and burp the baby often. After repair, protect the stitches: keep the baby on the back or side, not on the stomach, keep hands away from the mouth as ordered, and clean the stitch line gently.
At a glance
| Also written | cleft-lip, cleft lips |
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Related terms
birth defect
A problem in how a part of the body is formed or works that is present when a baby is born.
cleft palate
A birth defect in which the roof of the mouth has an opening because it did not close during development.