Source: bing.comOne of the most common concerns for new parents is the shape of their baby’s head. Many parents worry that their baby’s head is too flat or misshapen, but the truth is that it’s actually quite normal for a baby’s head to be a little lopsided at first. However, if you’re concerned that your baby’s head is too flat, it’s important to understand when and why flat heads can occur, and what steps you can take to prevent or treat them.
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Why Do Some Babies Develop Flat Heads?
The condition known as flat head syndrome, or positional plagiocephaly, occurs when an infant’s head develops a flat spot due to prolonged pressure on one part of the skull. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:
- Spending too much time lying on their backs: Experts recommend that babies be put to sleep on their backs to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). However, if a baby spends too much time on their back, their skull can become flattened in the area where it makes contact with the mattress.
- Being born with a flat spot: Some babies are born with a flat spot on their head due to the position they were in while in the womb.
- Being premature: Premature babies may be more susceptible to flat head syndrome because their skulls are softer and more malleable than full-term babies.
- Having a tight neck muscle: If a baby has a tight neck muscle on one side, they may prefer to keep their head turned in one direction, which can cause a flat spot on that side of the head.
When Do Babies Develop Flat Heads?
Flat head syndrome can develop at any time during a baby’s first year of life, but it is most common between the ages of 2 and 6 months. This is because babies at this age spend a lot of time lying on their backs and are not yet able to move their heads on their own. If you notice that your baby’s head is becoming flat, it’s important to take action right away to prevent it from getting worse.
How Can You Prevent Flat Heads?
Preventing flat head syndrome involves taking steps to reduce the amount of time your baby spends lying on the back of their head. Some things you can do include:
- Tummy time: Encourage your baby to spend time on their tummy while they are awake and supervised. This not only helps to develop their neck and shoulder muscles, but it also takes pressure off the back of their head.
- Change positions: Change the position of your baby’s head when they are lying down. For example, you can alternate which end of the crib they sleep on, or you can place a rolled up towel under one shoulder to encourage them to turn their head.
- Hold your baby: Holding your baby upright or in different positions can also help to prevent flat head syndrome.
How Can You Treat Flat Heads?
If your baby already has a flat spot on their head, there are things you can do to help correct it. Some treatments include:
- Repositioning: Repositioning your baby’s head while they sleep can help to shift the pressure off the flat spot and onto other parts of the skull.
- Helmets: In severe cases, your pediatrician may recommend a helmet that can help to reshape your baby’s head. These helmets are worn for several months and are most effective when started before the baby is 6 months old.
- Physical therapy: If your baby has a tight neck muscle that is causing them to favor one side of their head, physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscle.
Remember that flat head syndrome is a common condition and, in most cases, it can be easily prevented or treated. By taking simple steps to reduce the amount of time your baby spends lying on the back of their head, you can help to ensure that their head develops properly and avoid the need for more invasive treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a baby’s head become misshapen from spending too much time in a car seat or bouncer?
A: While spending too much time in a car seat or bouncer can put pressure on a baby’s head and cause it to become slightly misshapen, it is unlikely to cause flat head syndrome. Flat head syndrome is usually caused by prolonged pressure on one part of the skull, which is more likely to occur when a baby is lying down for long periods of time.
Q: Will a flat head affect my baby’s brain development?
A: No, a flat head will not affect your baby’s brain development. However, if the flat spot is severe, it can cause facial asymmetry or jaw misalignment, which may require orthodontic treatment later on.
Q: Can I prevent flat head syndrome by using a special pillow or mattress?
A: No, there is no evidence to suggest that special pillows or mattresses can prevent flat head syndrome. The best way to prevent flat head syndrome is to reduce the amount of time your baby spends lying on the back of their head.
Q: How long does it take for a baby’s head to become round again?
A: It depends on the severity of the flat spot and the treatment that is used. In mild cases, repositioning your baby’s head while they sleep may be enough to correct the problem within a few weeks. In more severe cases, it may take several months of treatment to see improvement.
Q: Is flat head syndrome permanent?
A: In most cases, flat head syndrome is not permanent and can be easily treated. However, if it is left untreated, it can become more difficult to correct as the baby’s skull begins to harden.