Why Do Babies Develop Flat Head and How to Prevent It
Well, the simple answer is that newborn babies have a very soft head. This means that it is easily moldable. So when a baby spends a lot of time laying on a flat surface, their head can shape to that surface... which then causes their head to become flat... eg. Flat head Syndrome, better known as Plagiocephaly.
Before you start to freak out, Plagiocephaly is not dangerous and cannot cause any brain damage, but it can cause a physical impairment.
Even though this is caused by laying a baby on their back... do not start putting them on their stomach or side! The safest place for your baby to sleep and hang out is on their back. A baby's neck muscles are not strong for a while, which means they can suffocate if they are not facing upright.
So, the million dollar question:
HOW DO I PREVENT OR CORRECT FLAT HEAD FOR MY NEWBORN BABY?
Here are three ways you can do this:
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Supervised tummy time
Babies should have supervised tummy time when they are awake. This should happen 2 to 3 times a day for around 10 to 15 minutes. You should set your baby down on their tummy to play while ensuring you are awake and breathing well. This prevents flat head while improving your baby's physical development and strength!
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Headrest for flat head
A great way to prevent flat head is by using a headrest which is designed to prevent your newborn from getting flat head. The Lovenest, Lovenest(+), and Lovenest Natural care are headrests designed by medical professionals to prevent and correct flat head. These headrests are great for when your baby is laying on their back with supervision. You can put the Lovenest headrest that prevents flat head on baby's play mat, stroller, car seat, and more! It's lightweight and portable for ultimate convenience.
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Lounger that prevents flat head
A newborn lounger is great for newborns as it replicates the feeling of being in the womb, which soothes baby. The Cosydream Newborn Lounger is a newborn lounger that not only aids in digestion, but prevents flat head. It has a premium design which keeps baby’s head round while soothing them.
All Babymoov products are made with parents to ensure maximum quality and use.
IF YOUR BABY STILL DEVELOPS FLAT HEAD AFTER FOLLOWING THE STEPS ABOVE, PLEASE CALL YOUR DOCTOR.