As a new mum, I used to worry about the soft spots on my baby’s head. I think I even made one hospital trip to have it checked out. Lol!

Here is all you need to know about the throbbing soft spot on your newborn’s head.

The soft spots are called fontanelles. Though they may differ in size, there are two fontanelles on your baby’s head. These soft spots are protected by a strong membrane, so you are not touching your baby’s brain when you touch them.

The one on the back of the baby’s head is called the posterior fontanelle. This is usually smaller than the one at the front and shaped almost like a triangle. The fontanelle on the top of his head is the anterior fontanelle. It is larger and diamond-shaped. A baby’s head/skull bones are usually soft so the can pass through the birth canal easily without causing any major damage. This process is called moulding. As your baby grows, the head bones will meet, fuse and close up the soft spots.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7SEQ4DlhKQ

By 6- 8 weeks the posterior fontanelle would have closed up while the anterior fontanelle takes between 10- 12 months to close up completely. It may take longer in some babies, so there is nothing to worry about.

NOTE

If there is bulge or sunken fontanelle on your baby’s head, talk to your doctor immediately. Here is a learning video.