hello doctor
my baby has dent at back of his head
I noticed at 2 months now he is 5 months it improves is it normal or not

Question

Accepted Answer

It's not uncommon for babies to develop flat spots on the back or side of their heads, a condition known as positional plagiocephaly. This can happen if a baby spends a lot of time lying on their back, as the soft skull bones can be easily molded. Here are some steps you can take and when to seek medical advice:

### Steps to Take

1. **Tummy Time:** Ensure your baby gets plenty of supervised tummy time when they are awake. This helps strengthen their neck muscles and relieves pressure on the back of the head.
   
2. **Vary Positions:** Change the position of your baby's head during sleep. Alternate the direction they face in their crib each night. You can also hold them in different positions during feeding and playtime.

3. **Limit Time in Car Seats/Swings:** Avoid keeping your baby in car seats, swings, or bouncers for extended periods.

4. **Use a Baby Carrier:** Carrying your baby in a baby carrier can help reduce the time they spend lying on their back.

### When to Seek Medical Advice

- **Persistent Flattening:** If the flattening doesn't improve or gets worse despite your efforts to change their position.
  
- **Asymmetry:** If you notice significant asymmetry in your baby's head shape, such as one ear appearing more forward than the other.
  
- **Developmental Concerns:** If your baby is not meeting other developmental milestones, such as holding up their head, rolling over, or showing interest in their surroundings.

### Medical Evaluation

Your pediatrician can assess your baby's head shape and may recommend specific interventions if needed. In some cases, a helmet may be suggested to help mold the baby's head back into a more typical shape.

### Conclusion

While many cases of positional plagiocephaly can improve with simple measures at home, it's always best to consult with your pediatrician to ensure that there are no underlying concerns and to receive personalized guidance based on your baby's needs.

hello doctor my baby has dent at back of his head I noticed at 2 months now he is 5 months it improves is it normal or not