When we hold our baby in our arms and see how vulnerable their little head is, many parents may wonder how to prevent plagiocephaly, in this case positional plagiocephaly. This type of plagiocephaly occurs when pressure is exerted on the baby's head. Prevention involves avoiding this excessive pressure, i.e., avoiding long periods of time in the same position.
Some of the simplest tips on how to prevent plagiocephaly are: gently move the baby's head every 2 hours when they are sleeping; avoid spending too many hours in the stroller or car seat; stimulate head movement with games and by placing them on their stomach while awake; hold them in your arms and practice babywearing, as well as using a mattress that reduces pressure. In short, stimulate the baby's head movement in some way to avoid constant pressure from hard surfaces.
Tips on how to prevent plagiocephaly:
1. Change position when sleeping
Following the recommendations of pediatricians, we should put the baby to sleep on their back and on a firm surface. Putting the baby on their stomach to sleep increases the risk of suffocation and sudden death.
When lying on their back, we must change the position of the head alternately every night, so that the pressure does not always fall on the same point. This can sometimes be difficult, as the baby seeks its own comfort and may move and rest its head differently from how we left it. Another option may be to turn the crib upside down, because the baby will unconsciously turn its head towards where its mother is sleeping.
2. Use a firm mattress that reduces pressure
It may seem counterintuitive, but a firm sleeping surface is ideal for preventing positional plagiocephaly. On mattresses that we think can relieve pressure, such as latex or memory foam, the baby sinks deeper and finds it more difficult to move freely. Not only does this cause pressure to be exerted on the same spot all night, but it also increases the heat in the mattress, which is directly related to sudden infant death syndrome.
A firm yet comfortable surface is the best option. At ECUS Kids, we have mattresses designed specifically to treat plagiocephaly. Care® mattresses reduce pressure on the baby's head by up to 70% and provide numerous support points thanks to the bubble shape of their foam. In addition, both the foam and the fabric are highly breathable, allowing air to circulate freely without allowing CO2 to accumulate. This has earned it the AEMPS health certificate for the prevention of plagiocephaly and suffocation.
3. Turn it upside down and play with it
Playing on their stomach every day, always under adult supervision, is perfect for relieving pressure on the skull. In addition to relieving pressure, this activity stimulates their development and strengthens their neck muscles.
At first, some babies cry and resist lying on their stomachs. This is normal. Day by day, they have to gradually get used to this position and playing like this.
4. Avoid prolonged use of hard surfaces
Strollers, car seats, baby bouncers, and similar items do not leave the baby much room to move and change position. Restricting the child's natural movement is a problem, as we are unconsciously putting pressure on their head.
Instead, we can choose to practice babywearing from time to time, which completely relieves any pressure on the skull and helps us avoid plagiocephaly.
5. Pick up your baby
It is not necessary to hold them all day long, but from time to time, holding them and taking a short walk around the house helps.
We tend to be busy with work, household chores... And we forget to give our babies the attention they deserve. By holding our babies in our arms longer and playing with them, we relieve pressure on their heads and strengthen our bonds, making our babies much happier.
6. Consult with a specialist
When in doubt, it is always best to consult a pediatrician or physical therapist who specializes in babies. They are the ones who can best advise and guide you on plagiocephaly. They will be able to diagnose your baby's plagiocephaly, perform physical therapy sessions with them, and give you the appropriate recommendations for their case.
