What is the purpose of using a Haberman feeder for infants with cleft lip/palate?

• A. Provides controlled flow with a one-way valve and reduces nasal regurgitation
• B. Is used to deliver vitamins
• C. Increases flow to cause faster feeding
• D. Is contraindicated in cleft lip/palate

Answer: (A)

The main concept is how specialized feeding devices help infants with cleft palate by controlling milk flow and preventing milk from entering the nasal passages. The Haberman feeder uses a nipple with a built‑in one-way valve that provides a gentle, controlled flow. This design reduces the amount of milk that can reflux into the nasal cavity as the baby tries to suck, which is especially important when there is an abnormal communication between the mouth and nose due to cleft lip/palate. Because the flow is regulated and the device requires less intense suction, feeding becomes easier and safer for the infant.

Delivering vitamins isn’t the function of this feeder, and increasing the flow would not help—in fact, it could worsen nasal regurgitation and make feeding harder. It’s not contraindicated; it’s specifically used to support feeding in infants with cleft lip/palate.