The soft spot on
The anterior (
The posterior (
However, the sizes of fontanel differ in babies, some babies have large fontanel which may be slower in bonding than the small.
As time progresses, the spot toughens and closes up, the posterior fontanel is likely to close by the time your baby is 2-4months old, while the anterior fontanel is likely to close between the average of 9-18 months old, or even until two years in some babies.
Naturally, these soft spots on the infant skull play a vital role during delivery as it gives the baby head the flexibility needed to squeeze itself through the birth canal.
Some parents feel anxious about touching the soft spot thinking maybe they might injure the baby, Nevertheless, there is no need to worry about touching the soft spot, it is covered by a though membrane to protect it, and the risk of getting hurt through the fontanel is low.
Sunken Fontanel: If the soft spot is sunken, that-is, drawn in, it is a sign of dehydration(when the baby does not have fluid in his body), However, the sunken fontanel may occur if the baby is ill and does not get enough fluids or nutrients.
Visit your doctor if you notice the persistence of the sunken appearance or any signs of dehydration.
Bulging fontanel: This is a state whereby the soft spot swells up or looks full, which may be a sign of infection which requires immediate medical attention, the soft spot may puff out a bit when the baby cries and return to the normal position later.
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Main Photo credit: AmelieNewYork
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About the Author
Ayodeji is the founder of Mumslove,he is a Mechanical Engineer by education and an entrepreneur by passion,his experience of selling baby product at his Mums shop for several years has led him to the creative mind behind this website, apart from being a business geek he also loves to connect with people.