A lactation consultant told my daughter that my 5 wk old granddaughter has weak cheek muscles which is causing her to not nurse well. She was born at 38 wks, 7-12, no complicatons--slight jaundice that did not require phototherapy. She now weighs 10-14. Has been holding her head up since birth! and does not have any weakness elsewhere. All baby reflexes are strong and normal... What would cause weak cheek muscles? She is going to a speech therapist to learn exercises..
Hello. Welcome to Chat Doctor. As a Lactation Consultant I want to tell you that this is not a big concern. There are some exercises you can do to strengthen the babies suck. In order to help with this try to Use the cross-cradle hold or the football hold position. Provide support for chin if baby tires easily (Dancer hand position). The mother may use nipple shield to assist with maintaining latch-on. If you have difficulties again contact me and I can give a full detailed plan on how to work with this.