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(Link: www.nhs.uk/)
This is known as flat head syndrome, and there are 2 main types:
plagiocephaly – the head is flattened on 1 side, causing it to look asymmetrical; the ears
may be misaligned and the head looks like a parallelogram when seen from above, and
sometimes the forehead and face may bulge a little on the flat side
brachycephaly – the back of the head becomes flattened, causing the head to widen, and
occasionally the forehead bulges out
These problems are quite common, affecting around 1 in every 5 babies at some point.
In most cases they aren't a major cause for concern, as they don't have any effect on the
brain and the head shape will often improve by itself over time.
Your baby won't experience any pain or other symptoms, or any problems with their general
development.
A young baby's skull is still relatively soft and can change shape if there's constant pressure
on a particular part of their head.
sleeping on their back – the back or side of a baby's head can become flattened as a
result of always sleeping on their back, but it's important they do this to reduce the risk
of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) (Link: www.nhs.uk/conditions/sudden-infant-
death-syndrome-sids/)
problems in the womb – pressure can be placed on a baby's head before it's born
if they're a bit squashed in the womb or there's a lack of amniotic fluid to cushion them
being born prematurely – premature babies are more likely to develop a flattened head
because their skull is softer when they're born, and they may prefer to rest their head on
1 side at first as they're not yet able to move their head themselves
neck muscle tightness – this can prevent a baby turning their head a particular
way, meaning 1 side of their head is placed under more pressure
Occasionally, a flattened head can be caused by the plates of the skull joining together too
early. This is known as craniosynostosis (Link: www.nhs.uk/conditions/craniosynostosis/).
Speak to your health visitor or GP if you're concerned about the shape of your baby's head
or think they may have problems turning their head.
They can examine your baby's head and suggest things you can do to help.
A slightly flattened head isn't usually anything to worry about, but it's a good idea to get
advice early on so you can take steps to stop it getting any worse.
give your baby time on their tummy during the day – encourage them to try new
positions during play time, but make sure they always sleep on their back as this is safest
for them
switch your baby between a sloping chair, a sling and a flat surface – this ensures there
isn't constant pressure on 1 part of their head
change the position of toys and mobiles in their cot – this will encourage your baby to
turn their head on to the non-flattened side
alternate the side you hold your baby when feeding and carrying
reduce the time your baby spends lying on a firm flat surface, such as car seats and
prams – try using a sling or front carrier when practical
These devices apply pressure to "bulging" parts of the skull and relieve pressure from other
parts, potentially allowing growth in the flatter areas.
Treatment is started when the child's skull is still soft, usually at around 5 or 6 months old,
and the device is worn almost continuously (up to 23 hours a day) for several months.
Some people try special curved mattresses that are designed to distribute the weight of a
baby's head over a larger area so less pressure is placed on a particular point of their skull.
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3/10/2020 Plagiocephaly and brachycephaly (flat head syndrome) - NHS
These are cheaper than helmets and headbands, but there's currently only limited evidence
to suggest they may help.
Your baby's head may not return to a completely perfect shape, but by the time they're 1 or
2 years old any flattening will be barely noticeable.
More severe cases will also get better over time, although some flattening will usually
remain.
The appearance of your child's head should improve as they become more mobile and their
hair grows.
It's very rare for a child to experience problems such as teasing when they reach school age.
You may consider using a helmet or headband if you're worried about your child, but it's not
clear whether these always work.
You should also bear in mind the inconvenience, expense and possible discomfort for you
and your child.
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