{"title":"SpecialNeeds","description":"\u003ch1\u003eSpecialNeeds Feeder\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFeeding an infant who can't generate normal suction — because of a cleft lip or palate, low muscle tone, or a neurological condition — is one of the hardest challenges a parent or NICU nurse faces. The SpecialNeeds Feeder (long known as the Haberman Feeder) was designed for exactly these babies. It puts the flow of milk under the caregiver's and baby's control rather than relying on the infant's ability to create a vacuum, so feeding stays calm, safe, and complete.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe defining feature is the slit-valve teat with a one-way flow. Milk collects in the teat and doesn't flow back into the bottle, so an infant who can only compress — not suck — still gets fed. Three lines marked on the nipple let you rotate it to adjust flow from slow to fast, matching the baby's pace and reducing the choking, gulping, and air-swallowing that lead to reflux and fatigue. Because you can gently assist by squeezing the teat, even a weak or tired feeder can finish a full feed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParents most often ask who this is for: babies with cleft conditions, Pierre Robin sequence, Down syndrome, cardiac or respiratory issues, and premature infants transitioning from tube feeding all commonly benefit. It's also useful for any baby who tires quickly at the breast or bottle. The system is BPA-free and dishwasher-safe, and it can be sterilized between feeds — an important point for NICU and hospital use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA note on sizing: the feeder comes in a standard version and a smaller preemie-appropriate size, so match the option to your infant's age and weight. Keep a spare teat on hand, since the valve is the working part and benefits from periodic replacement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf your feeding plan is still being worked out, your pediatrician, lactation consultant, or feeding specialist can help you choose flow settings and confirm the SpecialNeeds Feeder fits your baby's diagnosis.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[],"url":"https:\/\/honestmed.com\/collections\/specialneeds.oembed","provider":"Honest Medical","version":"1.0","type":"link"}