More and more parents are noticing that their baby has a flat spot forming on the back of their heads. In fact, some research suggests that close to 50% of babies have head flattening - which means if you spot some irregularity in your baby’s head shape, you’re not alone!
While more and more physicians are referring to helmet treatment for Flat Head Syndrome, most parents can’t help but delve into a pool of questions. But are helmets the only answer? Is a flat head really a big deal? Will your baby’s head round out on its own? Is this a sign of some grievous failing as a parent?
Don’t let these thoughts become the sole cause of your panic and anxiety.
Learning that your baby has flat head syndrome can be daunting – especially with the sea of misinformation available on the internet. So, we thought we'd make it easier by debunking 6 common myths about the condition, hoping to put your worries to rest (just like this baby on our pillow, more on that later).
Let's set the record straight, shall we?
Myth #1: Rush to the Doctor immediately
Having a baby makes you go over the moon. While you admire their little toes and fingers, their flat-shaped head might give you the jitters. Worry not! It’s not the time to lose sleep over this and refrain from rushing to the doctor at the first given opportunity. It is a very common deformity that needs concentrated efforts to diagnose and correct at an early age whilst the baby is able to respond to the treatment.
Myth #2: Using a Horse-shaped Pillow will make the head round
Many believe that using horseshoe-shaped baby pillows will help give your baby's head a round shape. However, there is no evidence to support this. Be aware that these pillows may cause a baby's head to get locked in the same position for a longer period. This, in turn, may cause a flat spot at the back of your baby’s head. Also, if your baby's head is firmly placed in the middle of a horseshoe-shaped pillow, it will be difficult for him to turn his head to the side in case he spits up milk or vomits. This could make your baby choke on his own vomits.
Myth #3: Using a Rai Pillow is the solution
So now that we know that newborn babies have delicate, soft heads, we also need to know that their skull bones do not always stay the same. The skull can take 3-4 weeks to come back together and fuse into one. The mustard pillow or more commonly called ‘Rai ka takiya’ was one of the most popular and conventional methods for correcting head shape. It is believed to provide proper support and cushioning to the baby’s head while it feels tender and relaxing.
However, research says that the not-so-quintessential mustard pillow is actually dangerous for the kids due to its sheer weight making it not only dangerous for the infant but also inconvenient to carry around in the baby diaper bag too. Besides, the smallest tear or hole can cause the mustard seeds to spill and result in a fatal accident.
Myth #4: Wait & See Approach
So you found out that your baby has the flat head syndrome. Of course, your friends and family will recommend the most common repositioning techniques to you to facilitate a natural correction. It is natural to feel confused and overwhelmed. However, the wait and watch approach works best with mild cases of the flat head syndrome. As responsible parents, you need to make concrete and concentrated efforts of using good quality baby head shaping pillows.
Myth #5: A head shaping pillow is a mere marketing gimmick
You’ll be surprised that a good quality head shaping pillow is magical when it comes to correction of the flat head syndrome. The baby’s head transforms from being flat to the ideal round shape that you’ve been worried about attaining. The Baby Pillows by The White Willow is designed to exert adequate pressure on the baby's skull while the baby is sleeping and slowly bring the right shift.
It is most ideal when used up to 3 months post which it continues to offer great comfort to the baby when he sleeps. Are you ready to shop for yours? Check it out!
Myth #6: Tummy time is enough
While tummy time is highly recommended for the development of a round-shaped head in babies, it is not exhaustive. Variety is the spice of life and it's also the key to preventing flat spots. The parents have to supplement this form of exercise by investing in the right products that can do the job perfectly.
Embrace the journey of parenthood. With each passing day, you’ll learn more and more about raising your child effectively.
Stop worrying and be responsible. NOW is the time to learn simple changes you can make to your daily routine that can prevent and correct Flat Head Syndrome of your little one.
FAQ
Q1: How can I tell if my baby's flat head is severe enough to warrant immediate medical attention?
Look for signs like significant asymmetry, a prominent ridge along the flattened area, or facial features shifting out of alignment. If you notice any of these, consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and correction are crucial for effective treatment.
Q2: What are safe alternatives to horseshoe-shaped pillows for preventing flat head syndrome?
Supervised tummy time helps strengthen neck muscles and promotes a round head shape. You can also try repositioning your baby's head during sleep, alternating sides each time. A specifically designed baby head-shaping pillow can also be beneficial.
Q3: What are the steps involved in using a head-shaping pillow correctly?
- Choose a quality pillow designed for infants.
- Place the pillow in the crib so your baby's head rests gently on it.
- Alternate the head position regularly to avoid pressure on one spot. Remember to always supervise your baby while they are using the pillow
Q4: Besides repositioning and pillows, what other methods can help improve my baby's head shape?
Carrying your baby upright more often, varying feeding positions, and encouraging movement in different directions can all contribute to a more rounded head shape. These activities reduce the pressure on one particular area of the skull.
Q5: How can I create a safe and stimulating tummy time environment for my baby?
Place your baby on a firm, comfortable surface like a play mat. Use engaging toys and interact with your baby to make tummy time enjoyable. Start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration as your baby gets stronger.