You may have already felt it: that soft spot on the head of your newborn. This is called the fontanel. It may feel delicate, but it’s a completely normal part of your baby’s body. In this article, you’ll read what the soft spot on the head of your newborn actually is, what its function is, and when does a newborn’s soft spot go away.
What is a fontanel?
The fontanel is the space between your baby’s skull bones. At birth, those bones aren’t yet fully fused together. That has an important purpose: it allows the head to pass more easily through the birth canal, and it also gives the brain room to grow during the first years of life.
Many parents find the idea of a newborn soft spot a little worrying. Fortunately, the fontanel is stronger than you might think. Beneath it lies a tough membrane that protects everything well. So you don’t need to be afraid that a gentle touch will do any harm.
How many soft spots does a newborn have?
Parents often wonder: how many soft spots does a newborn have? Most babies have two:
- The large newborn soft spot on top of head (the most well-known one)
- The smaller fontanel: located at the back of the head and often closing within a few months
One baby may have a slightly larger opening, while another has a smaller one. Whether your baby has a large or small fontanel doesn’t say anything about health. There is a wide natural variation. What matters most is that the skull closes gradually, which your pediatrician keeps track of during checkups.
When does a newborn’s soft spot go away?
A common question is: when does a newborn’s soft spot go away? The smaller fontanel usually closes around three to four months. The larger soft spot generally closes between 12 and 18 months. Sometimes it happens a little earlier or later. That’s normal, as long as your child’s overall development is on track.
When the soft spot on the head of a newborn begins to close, parents usually don’t notice much. The process happens gradually, but it’s still a milestone in your baby’s development.
Is your baby’s soft spot sunken or bulging?
Sometimes you’ll see the newborn soft spot move slightly with your baby’s breathing or heartbeat. That’s completely normal. Still, there are a few signs worth paying attention to:
- Sunken soft spot newborn: this may be a sign of dehydration. Keep an eye on whether your baby is drinking enough and has a normal number of wet diapers.
- Bulging soft spot: this may indicate increased pressure in the head. If you notice this and it doesn’t feel right, always contact your pediatrician.
Trust your instincts here. You know your baby best. If something makes you uneasy, talk to your pediatrician or healthcare provider.
How to care for your baby’s fontanel
Many parents ask: “Can I actually touch that soft spot?” The answer is yes. The soft spot on head of newborn is strong enough for normal care.
A few helpful tips:
- Use a soft brush or your hand when washing and grooming
- Always lift or support your baby under the neck or body, not by the head
- If your baby seems sensitive when you touch near the newborn soft spot, it may be temporary. just like other developmental phases
Good to know:
- The newborn soft spot is a normal part of your baby’s growth
- You don’t need to treat it with extra caution, just handle it as gently as you would any other part of your baby
- Your pediatrician will always check the skull’s development during regular visits
Do you still have questions about the soft spot on head of newborn? Or would you like to share experiences with other parents who also find it a bit nerve-wracking? In The Wonder Weeks app, you’ll find a supportive community where parents help each other and find reassurance. You can also learn more about how your baby’s head develops and how the skull gradually closes over time.
