The Best Way to Prevent a Cleft Issue During Pregnancy is Folic Acid
Posted on 5/10/2021 by Betsy Hoos
A cleft palate is a result of the face and skull not forming properly in early pregnancy. A baby's face is formed in stages. A cleft lip happens when different parts of the face do not join properly. If the parts of one side of the face do not join to another, a gap in the lip forms. A cleft in the palate is a divided space in the roof of the mouth. A gap can form on the hard and soft palate of the mouth, or either one. The palate is formed in parts as well, and if they do not meet, a cleft of the palate occurs. A baby can be born with a cleft lip, a cleft palate, or a cleft lip and palate.
Prevention of Cleft Issues
Several factors play into the cause of a cleft lip and palate. We believe it is a combination of both environmental and genetic factors. It could also be the result of many different processes happening at once during the development of the face and skull.
It is important to note the role of folic acid in the development of the fetus. Folic acid can reduce certain birth defects of the brain and spinal cord as well as lower the risk for cleft lip and cleft palate. Folic acid is found in multi-vitamin supplements, and should be taken early in the pregnancy.
Come See Us and We Can Direct You
Each cleft issue is unique. It makes sense then that each treatment pathway will vary. If you come to us with a cleft issue, we are happy to help. We can refer you to a cleft specialist team that will be dedicated to guiding you through treatment and therapy.
A cleft palate is a result of the face and skull not forming properly in early pregnancy. A baby's face is formed in stages. A cleft lip happens when different parts of the face do not join properly. If the parts of one side of the face do not join to another, a gap in the lip forms. A cleft in the palate is a divided space in the roof of the mouth. A gap can form on the hard and soft palate of the mouth, or either one. The palate is formed in parts as well, and if they do not meet, a cleft of the palate occurs. A baby can be born with a cleft lip, a cleft palate, or a cleft lip and palate.