Touching the soft spots on a baby's head (fontanelles) is generally not harmful, provided you do so gently.
The "soft spots," or fontanelles, are gaps in the baby's skull that are covered by a tough, fibrous membrane. These spaces allow the baby's head to mold during birth and provide room for the brain to grow rapidly during infancy.
Understanding Fontanelles
- What are they? Fontanelles are membrane-covered spaces between the bones of a baby's skull.
- Why do they exist? They allow the skull to compress slightly during birth and accommodate rapid brain growth after birth.
- How many are there? Babies usually have two fontanelles at birth: the anterior fontanelle (on the top of the head) and the posterior fontanelle (at the back of the head). The posterior fontanelle usually closes within a few months, while the anterior fontanelle typically closes between 9 and 18 months of age.
Touching the Fontanelles: What to Expect
- Gentle touch is okay: You can gently touch, wash, and care for the fontanelles without causing harm. The membrane protecting the brain is quite strong.
- Avoid excessive pressure: Do not poke or press hard on the fontanelles.
- Normal pulsations: You might feel a slight pulse in the anterior fontanelle, which is perfectly normal and reflects the baby's heartbeat.
When to Consult a Doctor
While gentle touching is safe, certain signs related to the fontanelles warrant a doctor's visit:
- Sunken fontanelle: This could indicate dehydration.
- Bulging fontanelle: This could indicate increased pressure inside the skull, potentially due to infection or fluid buildup.
- Fontanelles that close too early or too late: These situations may require medical evaluation.
- Persistent crying or irritability accompanied by changes in the fontanelles: Seek immediate medical attention.
In summary, it is generally safe to gently touch the soft spots on a baby's head. Just be mindful of applying excessive pressure and be aware of signs that may indicate an underlying medical issue.
