Flat head syndrome is the name given to a condition where a section of a baby’s head becomes flattened due to constantly lying or leaning in one spot. Flat head syndrome is also known as plagiocephaly. Babies’ skulls are made up of several plates of bone which are loosely held together, their skulls are soft to allow the brain growth that occurs in babies during the first year of life. 

Flat head syndrome is the name given to a condition where a section of a baby’s head becomes flattened due to constantly lying or leaning in one spot. Flat head syndrome is also known as plagiocephaly.
Babies’ skulls are made up of several plates of bone which are loosely held together, their skulls are soft to allow the brain growth that occurs in babies during the first year of life.  As a result, their heads can easily be moulded from continuous pressure on one side.
In some cases, positional plagiocephaly can begin before a baby is delivered. This happens when the baby is positioned with their head against the mother’s pelvis. It's very common in multiple births.
What are the symptoms of flat head syndrome?
  • An obvious flat area on the back or one side of the head
  • A bald patch on the head where baby predominately lies on
  • An unbalanced appearance of the face
  • Flattening of the opposite side of the forehead
  • One ear more forward than the other
  • Increased head height towards the back of the head
  • Bulging on one side of the head
What can I do to prevent flat head syndrome?
  • Paediatricians recommend that your baby is not left on their back for too long as it can create pressure on the same areas of their head. 
  • Introduce more tummy time during the day, give your baby 5-10 minutes of tummy time at least three times a day
  • Encourage baby to sleep on a different side of their head each night and remove any lights. Babies tend to naturally follow the light
  • Try to switch baby to different sides when they are sleeping 
  • Alternate the side you hold your baby when feeding them
  • Reduce the time spent on a flat surface, such as car seats, baby bouncers and buggies or you could invest in a sling or baby carrier
  • Look into a baby pillow specifically designed to prevent flat head syndrome
How is flat head syndrome treated?
If your baby develops flat head syndrome preventing baby from resting on the flattened spot all the time will help reposition the skull. 
If your baby appears to have discomfort or cries when they are repositioned, they may have an issue with their neck, if you think this is the case get in touch with your doctor. A chartered physiotherapist may recommend some neck exercises to do if your baby.
If the plagiocephaly is quite severe, your doctor may prescribe a helmet or headband that is customized to fit your baby. It will help your babies skull form normally and works best if worn starting at age 4 months.
Written by Kellie Kearney staff writer at FFHQ who also blogs at www.mylittlebabog.com.

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