Cleft lip

What is the problem?

During your ultrasound examination we have found that your baby has an area on the lip that has not formed correctly. This is called a cleft lip.

What does this mean?

We find this in approximately 1 in 700 pregnancies (0.14%). It can affect one or both sides of the upper lip. It can be present on its own but can also be associated with a cleft of the upper gum (alveolus) and / or with the palate. It is often difficult at 20 weeks to see whether a cleft palate is present.

What happens next?

You will be offered the opportunity to discuss these findings with a fetal medicine midwife.

You will be offered a further scan in the fetal medicine unit. The fetal medicine consultant will discuss with you the need for further scans or an MRI.

Cleft lip and palate can be associated with chromosome abnormalities. The chances of this in your individual case will be discussed with you by the fetal medicine consultant, and genetic testing maybe offered.

You will also be offered the opportunity to talk to the specialist nurse from the cleft lip and palate team based here at Addenbrooke’s hospital.

What happens after baby is born?

Your baby will need an operation to repair the cleft. The timing of this and further details of the procedure will be discussed with you by the fetal medicine and cleft teams.

For further details contact the fetal medicine midwives on 01223 216185.

Useful information

CLAPA Cleft Lip and Palate Association (opens in a new tab)