Some babies can get a flat spot on their head from too much time spent in one position, such as in baby gear or lying on their back. This is common, particularly in the early months when babies have soft skulls and limited mobility.
Identifying a flat spot, medically known as plagiocephaly (when one side of the head appears flat) or brachycephaly (the back of the head appears flat), does not mean it is harmful, painful, or permanent.
Flat-head syndrome is usually harmless and improves with time
However, you may need to make some changes to baby's environment. You'll want to encourage free movement, floor play, tummy time, and keep baby gear use to a minimum – no more than two hours per day. When floor play isn't tolerated, and baby gear should be avoided, babywearing is a meaningful solution since it keeps pressure off your baby's head.
If you notice a flat spot on your baby's head, alert your pediatrician
They may also want to rule out craniosynostosis, where the plates of baby's skull fuse together too early. They can also look for tightness in baby's neck or back that could benefit from physical therapy to help baby properly move and grow.
Back is still best for sleep
Even if your baby has a flat spot on the back of their head, you should still follow safe sleep practices by putting them to sleep on their back. Focus on varying their positions during playtime instead.