It is normal for a baby’s head to be misshapen after birth. This is because a newborn baby’s head is soft to make it easier to travel down the birth canal.
If your baby’s head is an unusual shape, it will normally become more normal and rounded within two weeks after birth.
If the head is still an odd shape two weeks after the birth, or there is bulging or a swelling, or the head is not growing as it should, then you should talk to your health practitioner.
How long does it take for a baby’s skull to heal?
This will depend on the type of injury. There are different skull injuries to consider, which include:
- scalp injuries
- severe cephalohematoma
- skull fractures
- different types of haemorrhage.
A scalp injury (such as an abrasion) is the most common. This will often resolve itself within a few days, and without the need for treatment. In more serious cases, treatment may be required, and it will take longer to heal.
