Babies born through normal delivery can sometimes have an uneven or not perfectly round head shape. If your little one experiences it, don't worry immediately. An uneven baby's head can be caused by several things and is generally harmless. how come.
Newborns with a head that is not perfectly round or puffy are quite common. Maybe Mother is worried that this condition will persist and interfere with the appearance of the Little One as an adult. However, this condition is actually normal for newborns.
Generally, an uneven baby's head shape is a harmless condition and does not affect health. The shape of a loving head will change to normal by itself as the baby grows.
Various Causes of Uneven Baby's Head
It is estimated that about 1 in 5 babies born healthy will have problems with the shape of the head. This condition often occurs as a result of a normal delivery process when the baby has to pass through a narrow birth canal, while the skull bones are still soft. The baby's skull usually only begins to harden after the baby is 1 year old.
In addition, there are several conditions that can also affect the shape of the newborn's head and cause the baby's head to be uneven, namely:
- Pressure on the uterus when the baby is in the womb due to little amniotic fluid
- The process of delivering a baby with the help of forceps or a vacuum
- Pressure on the back of the baby's head that is often laid in the supine position
- The baby's neck muscles are tense, so the baby often falls asleep in one position only
- Babies born prematurely
- Twins
How to Prevent and Overcome Uneven Baby Head Conditions
There are several ways you can do to prevent and help improve the shape of your baby's uneven head, including:
- Vary the baby's sleeping position by changing its position sideways to the left and right periodically, so that the baby is not too long in one particular sleeping position.
- Avoid putting your little one on a chair, swing, or a place where his head tends to be in the same position, especially if the headrest is flat.
- Try different ways to put your little one to sleep. For example, when it's time to take a nap, put your little one to sleep while holding him with a cloth shawl. Place your baby in front of your chest and make sure that your lips and head can touch. This position is considered safer and can strengthen the bond between mother and baby.
- Do tummy time during the day when the little one is playing.
Generally, the condition of the baby's head is uneven and has no effect on brain development. The shape of the baby's head will also change to normal by itself with age. In addition, the baby's head that is not round will be covered by hair so it will not be too visible.
Even so, if the shape of your little one's head does not go round or this condition is accompanied by growth and development problems, you should check your little one to the pediatrician. The doctor will perform a physical examination by looking at the shape of the baby's head, as well as assessing the movement of the head and neck. If necessary, the doctor may recommend the use of a special helmet so that the baby's head grows rounder.