A 12-week ultrasound is usually able to detect a cleft lip and palate. During the 8th week of embryonic development, the face has essentially begun to take shape, but the oral and nasal cavities remain connected, and the fusion between the palatal lid and palatal plate is not complete until about 12 weeks. At this time, tissue defects in the lip or palate can be detected by ultrasound, and therefore can be checked for cleft lip and palate. On ultrasound, if the fetus has its mouth closed it cannot be seen, and the tissue defect can only be detected by doing a swallow or yawning. At rest, the ultrasound can detect congenital tissue defects in the lips as well as the alveolar ridge of the fetus. In order to avoid the development of cleft lip and palate, it is important for the pregnant woman to take adequate nutrition during pregnancy, especially folic acid as well as vitamins. It is also important to maintain a good mood, all of which will help the fetus to grow healthily. It is recommended to go to a regular hospital for regular checkups to detect fetal problems in time and ensure the health of the fetus.