Baby's head shape - plagiocephaly
misshapen; plagiocephaly; head; flat; spot; shape; deformed; deformity; skull; position; growth; uneven; face; asymmetrical;
It is common for a newborn baby to have an mis-shapened head.
Sometimes in the first 6 to 8 weeks after birth, a baby will develop a flattened spot (plagiocephaly) on the back or side of her head rather than having a rounded shape. This does not affect growth of the baby's brain, but it can cause uneven growth of the baby's face as well as her head.
Most children with plagiocephaly do not need to have any treatment. Their heads will become more rounded as they move more and begin to sit up. However it would be a good idea to get your baby's head shape checked regularly by your doctor if his or her head shape is not round. A physiotherapist will also be able to check your baby' head shape and help you work out what to do.
To find out more
The Royal Children's Hospital (Melbourne)
Raising Children Network
The information on this site should not be used as an alternative to professional care. If you have a particular problem, see a doctor, or ring the Parent Helpline on 1300 364 100 (local call cost from anywhere in South Australia).
This topic may use 'he' and 'she' in turn - please change to suit your child's sex.