Have you noticed a soft spot on your baby’s head? Are you wondering when does the baby’s soft spot close? Don’t worry! It’s totally normal. As a parent, you may be wondering when the soft spot will close.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what the soft spot is, why it’s there, and when it will close.
Why the soft spot is there?
The soft spot is also known as the fontanelle. It is made up of two sections of membrane-covered fibrous tissue between the bones in an infant’s skull and should not be mistaken for a fracture or other injury.
While your baby is in the womb and during their first few months of life, these plates remain open to allow for growth and accommodate for their developing brain.
The fontanelle can help to reduce pressure on a newborn’s brain due to rapid growth during this time period.
When does baby’s soft spot close?
The fontanelles typically close up within 12-18 months after birth, with most babies having both fontanelles closed by age two or three years old.
Some babies may have one of the fontanelles closing around six months old while others take longer.
This isn’t necessarily something to worry about if it happens with your child as long as there are no other signs of developmental problems related to this closure happening slower than expected.
It’s important to note that while the fontanelle is still open, it should be taken care of with gentle pressure only—no hard poking or prodding!
You should also monitor your baby’s head size regularly; any changes in size could indicate increased intracranial pressure which needs to be addressed by a medical professional right away.
Additionally, if you notice any bulging or swelling around the fontanelle area that does not recede over time, consult a physician immediately.
Indeed, that could indicate increased intracranial pressure caused by infection or other medical factors such as hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain).
The soft spot on your baby’s head is completely normal and nothing to worry about!
It serves an important purpose during infancy—allowing for rapid growth—and typically closes within 12-18 months after birth.
While it’s still open though, remember to take care of it with gentle pressure only.
Also, monitor your baby’s head size regularly for any changes that might indicate increased intracranial pressure.
With proper care, your baby will have both fontanelles closed by age two or three years old without any issues!
