Why is my baby's head so soft?
1 min read
Those soft areas on your baby's head, called fontanelles or soft spots, are normal gaps in the skull that give your baby's brain room to grow quickly over the first year.
There are usually one or two, a larger one toward the front and a smaller one in the back. Even though they lack a bony layer, they're well protected, so you can gently touch, wash, and handle your baby's head as usual. You may notice the front soft spot gently pulsing with your baby's heartbeat, which is normal and nothing to worry about.
Most of the time the soft spots need no special care. Call your pediatrician if a soft spot looks deeply sunken (especially with poor feeding or fewer wet diapers, a possible sign of dehydration) or if it appears tightly bulging.
What you can do
- Handle and wash your baby's head normally; gentle touch is safe
- Don't worry if you see the front soft spot gently pulsing
- Change your baby's head position to prevent flat spots
- Call your doctor if a soft spot looks sunken or bulging
Based on AAP guidance. Always consult your pediatrician for personalized advice.
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