A baby’s head shape begins to take on its permanent form as their skull bones gradually harden and the sutures
between the bones become fixed. This process typically happens beginning between 6 to 9 months of age, but changes can continue subtly until the child is 18 to 24 months old.
If you’re wondering about your baby’s head shape and how to support its healthy development, this guide covers what you need to know, including causes of head shape changes, treatments, and when to seek medical advice.
Understanding Your Baby’s Head Shape
At birth, a baby’s skull is soft and flexible to allow for passage through the birth canal and accommodate rapid brain growth. This flexibility means that your baby’s head shape can change due to pressure from sleeping positions, movement, or other factors.
While some changes are part of normal development, others may require attention to prevent or correct irregularities.
How to Identify Abnormal Head Shapes in Babies
Monitoring your baby’s head shape is essential, especially in the first few months of life. Here’s what to look for:
- Persistent flattening on one side of the head.
- Bulging or unusual protrusions.
- Uneven or asymmetrical shape when viewed from above.
- Delayed head movement or stiffness in the neck.
If you notice any of these signs, consult your pediatrician. Early diagnosis and referral to a pediatric neurosurgeon allows for timely intervention, ensuring the best outcomes for your baby.
Developmental Phases of Head Shape in Babies
Your baby’s head shape goes through distinct stages:
- Newborn Stage: At birth, the skull is soft and may appear misshapen from delivery. This is normal and often resolves naturally.
- First 6 Months: During this period, flattening may occur due to sleeping position or time spent in car seats.
- 6 to 9 Months: The skull begins to harden, and head shape becomes more defined. Flattening can often be corrected during this phase with proper care.
- 18 to 24 Months: By this age, the skull bones have fused, making the head shape mostly permanent. A child’s head is at approximately 80% of its final size by the age of two.
What Causes Changes to a Baby’s Head Shape?
Several factors can influence a baby’s head shape:
1. Birth Process
- Pressure from the birth canal or the use of delivery tools like forceps can temporarily mold a baby’s skull.
- These changes often resolve within a few weeks after birth.
2. Sleeping Position
- Babies who sleep in the same position for long periods are at risk for positional plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome).
- Having your baby sleep on their back helps reduce the risk of SIDS, but rotating their head while they are awake and doing as much tummy time as possible can help prevent flattening.
3. Prematurity
- Premature babies have softer skulls and spend more time in neonatal care positions, increasing the risk of deformities.
- Repositioning and physical therapy can help.
4. Congenital Conditions
- Conditions like craniosynostosis (early fusion of skull bones) or microcephaly (smaller head due to improper brain growth) can alter head shape.
- These require prompt medical evaluation and, often, surgical intervention.
5. Inadequate Head Support
- Lack of proper support during infancy can lead to flat spots or asymmetry.
- Providing adequate head support during activities like tummy time and sleep is crucial.
- Kids with torticollis (stiffness of the neck muscles) can benefit from physical therapy and evaluation by a pediatric neurosurgeon.
Should You Worry About Your Baby’s Head Shape?
It’s natural to worry if you notice changes in your baby’s head shape. While minor irregularities often resolve on their own, persistent flattening or asymmetry may require professional advice.
- When to Seek Help:
- Flattening doesn’t improve after a few weeks.
- Bulging or unusual indentations appear.
- Your baby shows difficulty moving their head.
Treatment Options for a Baby’s Head Shape
1. Tummy Time
- Encourages babies to spend time on their stomachs while awake and supervised.
- Reduces pressure on the back of the head and strengthens neck muscles.
2. Sleeping Position
- Alternate the direction your baby’s head faces in the crib.
- Always follow safe sleep guidelines by placing your baby on their back to reduce the risk of SIDS.
3. Holding Your Baby
- Carry your baby in different positions to avoid prolonged pressure on one part of the skull.
4. Physical Therapy and Stretching
- If tight neck muscles (torticollis) are present, a pediatrician may recommend exercises or therapy.
5. Helmet Therapy
- In severe cases, a custom-fitted helmet can gently reshape your baby’s skull over time.
When Does a Baby’s Head Shape Become Permanent?
A baby’s head shape becomes largely permanent around 1 year old, as the skull hardens and fuses. Subtle changes may continue until 18 to 24 months, but early interventions like tummy time, repositioning, or helmet therapy can have the most significant impact during the first year.
FAQs About Baby Head Shape
- How long do babies’ heads change shape?
Babies’ heads are most malleable in the first 6 months and begin to harden between 6 to 9 months. - What age does a baby’s head shape become permanent?
By 18 to 24 months, the head shape is mostly permanent, with minimal changes after this age. - Do helmets help babies with flat heads?
Yes, helmets are effective for correcting severe flat spots, but are not necessary in most cases of positional plagiocephaly. - Is it normal for a baby’s head to be uneven?
Mild unevenness is common, especially in the first few months, but persistent or severe irregularities should be evaluated by a pediatrician.
Conclusion
Your baby’s head shape evolves significantly during the first year of life. While minor irregularities are often part of normal development, early intervention can correct more severe issues.
If you have concerns about your baby’s head shape, the NJ Craniofacial Center is here to help. Our experienced team offers personalized evaluations and treatments tailored to your baby’s unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and support your baby’s healthy development!
