The newborn has a special structure on its head called the fontanelle, which is divided into the anterior and posterior fontanelles. The posterior fontanelle usually closes naturally when the child is very young, so there is no need to worry excessively. The fontanelle, simply put, is the visible area on the top of the baby’s head where the bones have not completely closed, and the pulsation can be observed. This causes many parents to hesitate to touch or clean it, potentially leading to localized skin issues.
There are several key points to note regarding the care of the fontanelle:
Choose a pillow that is of medium firmness, avoiding overly hard materials such as rice pillows or mung bean pillows to prevent head shape deformities.
Ensure that there are no sharp edges on items in the home to reduce the risk of head injuries.
Regularly help the baby change sleeping positions to promote a symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing head shape.
If the baby has minor abrasions on the scalp, promptly disinfect with alcohol to prevent infection.
It is advisable to occasionally put a suitable hat on the baby to protect the fontanelle area.
Regarding the cleaning of the fontanelle, the correct methods include:
During bathing, gently wash the baby’s head with clean water or specially formulated baby shampoo to prevent scalp diseases.
The cleaning of the fontanelle should be done with extra gentleness, ensuring that nails are trimmed cleanly to prevent scratches.
If there is a newborn in the home, daily care of the fontanelle should be prioritized, and regular check-ups should be scheduled to monitor the closure progress of the fontanelle and to detect any abnormalities. The doctor will provide professional guidance and advice.
