Oropharyngeal and esophageal pressures were measured via a tip-transducer during mono- and binasal CPAP in 30 neonates. During nasal CPAP, increasing flows are followed by an increase in oropharyngeal pressure, although there were great variations among the pressures recorded. On the other hand, no increase in the esophageal pressure could be registered during nasal CPAP. It is advisable to use the lowest flow which ameliorates the respiratory status in neonates. To achieve an appropriate pressure in the oropharynx it is advisable to close the mouth during nasal CPAP in the neonate.