Cone shaped heads in newborns

Newborn head molding is a common and natural occurrence that happens during childbirth. Many parents are surprised to see that their baby’s head appears elongated, cone-shaped, or uneven right after birth. This is the result of the baby’s journey through the birth canal and is usually nothing to worry about. Over time, your baby’s head will return to its natural shape with no lasting effects.

What causes head moulding?

During a vaginal delivery, a baby’s skull must pass through the narrow birth canal. To make this possible, the bones in a newborn’s skull are not yet fused together. These soft, flexible bones can shift and overlap, allowing the head to compress slightly to fit through. This process, known as molding, helps facilitate a safer delivery for both baby and mother.

The extent of molding can vary. It’s typically more noticeable in babies born after a prolonged labor or with the help of delivery tools like forceps or a vacuum

What to expect after birth?

The cone-like appearance or uneven shape of your baby’s head may be most obvious in the first 24–48 hours. However, as the skull bones gradually shift back into place and the baby grows, the head will round out. This process usually happens within the first few weeks of life.

How can you care for your baby’s head?

• Gentle Touch: Your baby’s skull is still soft, so handle their head gently, especially around the soft spots (fontanelles).

• Frequent Position Changes: During sleep and playtime, alternate your baby’s head position to reduce pressure on any one area. Tummy time, while supervised, can also promote a well-rounded head shape.

• Patience: In most cases, no special treatment is needed for head molding.

When should you seek medical advice?

If your baby’s head shape doesn’t improve after a few weeks or you notice other concerns, such as bulging or sunken fontanelles, talk to your healthcare provider. They can rule out rare conditions like craniosynostosis, where the skull bones fuse too early.

Head molding is a natural and temporary part of childbirth. With time, your baby’s head will adjust to its rounded shape, allowing you to focus on enjoying their early milestones.