Let's explore why this happens, what types of swelling exist, how to tell if it's serious, and what you can do to support your baby's healing.
In this article:
What Causes a Head Bump on Your Newborn?
When a baby is born through normal delivery, their head experiences a lot of pressure, which helps them pass through the birth canal safely. However, sometimes, this can cause minor wounds in your baby’s head.Here’s why:
- The blood vessels on the baby’s head undergo a lot of pressure while squeezing through the birth canal
- Sometimes, the tools doctors employ during delivery, like vacuum extractors or forceps, can occasionally cause head bumps
- If labour is long, the baby’s head might be under pressure for a while
What Types of Head Swellings Can Be Found in Newborns?
Head bumps on newborns are not all alike. Here are the most common types to encounter:1. Caput Succedaneum (Soft Scalp Swelling)
This is the most common and has nothing to worry about. It’s just fluid build-up under the scalp from birth. It feels soft and squishy. Usually, it shows up right after birth and clears up in a few days on its own. There is no need to do anything.
2. Cephalohematoma or Bruise Under the Skull Covering
This is a blood clot between the skull and its thin outer layer. It appears a few hours after delivery and feels firm. The swelling doesn't cross the midline of the head. It might take days or even months to disappear entirely. While it mostly heals naturally, sometimes it can lead to mild jaundice because the body breaks down the trapped blood.
3. Subgaleal Haemorrhage (Rare but Serious)
This is when the blood clots under the scalp, but in a deeper layer. It might occur after vacuum-assisted delivery. The swelling spreads widely and feels soft or squishy. Your baby might look pale, feel weak, or have a rapid heartbeat. This is a rare condition that needs medical intervention.
How to Understand the Normal & Alarming Signs?
Most bruising or swelling heals gradually. However, you should be mindful of certain alarming signs.- Your baby seems irritable or lethargic
- There's poor feeding, vomiting, or pale skin
- Instead of healing, the swelling gets enlarged
- The soft spot feels tense or bulging
- There's yellowish skin on the eyes or jaundice that aggravates quickly
How Long Does It Take for Swelling to Go Away?
- Caput succedaneum mostly disappears after a few days
- Cephalohematoma might take 2–8 weeks
- Minor bruises might heal automatically within one or two weeks
What Is Normal to Feel as a New Parent?
Noticing any mark or swelling on your baby can make you feel guilty or worried. You might get confused thinking something might have been wrong during delivery. Please remember, it's not your fault. Most of these cases happen naturally and recover gradually.Lean on your family or partner for reassurance. Discussing your worries helps ease the emotional burden. The first few days can feel overwhelming with your newborn, but you're doing your best, which is important.
When to Seek Medical Guidance?
A head bump is a common scenario in many newborns, but see a doctor if:- You notice that your baby’s head shape changes rapidly
- The swelling feels really tender and gets bigger quickly
- You notice signs of infections like pus, temperature, and redness
- Your baby becomes weak, cries more often, and doesn't feed
What are The Next Steps?
- Keep an eye on your baby's head to notice the differences
- Note overall behaviour, including feeding pattern
- Support your baby’s head and treat the swollen areas gently
- Don’t skip your check-ups with the paediatrician
Seeing bruises or swellings on your newborn’s head might freak you out, but usually, it just means they underwent a lot of pressure during birth. Gradually, the body heals in a natural way. Keep an eye out and tell your doctor if something feels off.
With a lot of patience, love and a doctor’s supervision, your baby's tiny head will soon heal, and you will be able to enjoy the time with your little one.
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FAQs on Why Some Babies Are Born with Swelling or Bruising on the Head
- Is a bump on my baby’s head a serious issue?
Mostly, no. It's normally because of birth pressure, which is self-curing. However, in case of growth or presence of any other symptoms, such as irritability or poor feeding, approach your medic. - Can any long-term issue be caused by a head bump?
Usually not. The bruising doesn’t extend past the head and doesn’t affect the brain. In case of internal blood loss, medical care might be needed. - Should I massage or apply anything to reduce swelling?
No. Do not massage or put any oils or creams. Allow it for natural healing and follow your doctor's guidance
