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Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American
Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical
professor at the George Washington University School
of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.
She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national
television programs, discussing issues related to children's health.
Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.
Q: My baby has a flat head on one side. Is it from sleeping on his side? What should I do?
A: If your infant is only sleeping on one side, it may be encouraging some
head flattening. The recommendation of the American Academy of
Pediatrics is that the only safe sleeping position for your baby is on his
back.
The Academy's "Back to Sleep" campaign has successfully reduced the
number of infant deaths in the United States attributed to Sudden Infant
Death Syndrome (SIDS).
During early infancy, babies' skull bones are soft and not in a firmly fixed
position. Head molding (shaping) occurs during these early months and is
influenced by any sustained pressure such as lying in one position. While
your infant's is awake, allow him to spend some time on his tummy. This
position encourages head lifting and turning, and it seems to initiate early
motor skills development. If you discourage the favoring of one side, you
will allow his head to "mold" in a more evenly rounded manner. If his head
remains asymmetric, check with his pediatrician to find out if special
measures should be taken.
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