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My baby has a 'funny shaped' head

As a new parent, you may be concerned if your baby develops a different head shape in the first few months, with some possible flattening on one side.

This is called plagiocephaly and is quite common in babies, as their skull bones are soft and can reshape. The flat area may be at the side or back of your baby's head.

This usually happens as babies tend to lie on their backs or with their head to one side for much of the time. In most cases, the head shape will improve on its own over time and will have no effect on brain development.

Your baby's head may not completely return to a typical rounded shape, but by the time they are 1 to 2 years old, any flattening will be barely noticeable.

Very occasionally, a flat head can be caused by the skull plates forming your child's head joining together too early. There is a medical name for this; craniosynostosis, and it requires specialist review and management.

  • Your baby's head shape should start to improve as your baby grows and starts to move around more, spending less time directly on their back
  • Encourage supervised tummy time when your baby is awake and playing (remember always lay your baby to sleep on their back)
  • Watch this video for different tummy time positions
  • Stimulate your baby by talking or showing them toys from one side to encourage them to turn their head onto the non-flattened side
  • Change which side you hold your baby when you are feeding or carrying them
  • Alternate your baby's head position between left and right when they are sleeping on their back

Always remember: The safest sleeping position for your baby is on their back.

Useful Resources 

The Lullaby Trust 

Ways to get your baby moving

Why tummy time is so important for your baby

Tummy time ideas

Parent and Carer Leaflet 

Your baby will have their head circumference (size) measured at birth, at their 6 to 8 week baby check and if there are any worries regarding head shape or size. This helps pick up if your babies head is bigger or smaller than expected.

Your should also speak to your GP if your baby:

  • Seems to have an unusually large head. For example; their head is too big to fit hats for their age group and/or being unable to fit their head through a babygro that fits their body.
  • Has very visible veins on their head.
  • Has a bulging fontanelle (soft spot).
  • Has eyes looking downwards (sunsetting)
  • Is constantly vomiting
  • Has difficulty turning their head or has a strong preference for turning their head to one side.
  • Has an unusual shaped head shape or very prominent uneven ridges, which have not gotten better or have gotten worse, despite the repositioning suggestions described above.

Please speak with your health visitor or GP if you have any concerns. They will examine your baby's head and be able to advise you. Sometimes your GP may refer you to see a physiotherapist, or if they suspect that the skull plates have fused too early, a paediatric specialist.

Information for parents and carers on head turning preference and plagiocephaly