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Newborn babies feel like the most fragile thing in the world. They can’t hold their heads straight up without a little support. But what if you were carrying the baby and their head just fell back unexpectedly?
First of all, check how the baby is reacting. If they look fine, there’s less chance of injury.
But if the baby is in any discomfort or pain, or head movements are unusual, you must take them to a doctor as soon as possible. You don’t want to take risks with the little one, especially where the neck and head are involved.
In this post, I’ll talk about why a baby’s head would fall back unsupported and what you should do if it happens.
Why Does Baby’s Head Fall Back Unsupported?
Babies have bigger heads compared to other parts of their body (⅓ of the overall weight), in the early stages of their infant-hood.
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Our heads are being held up with the support of muscles in the neck. These neck muscles are not completely grown in newborn babies.
They lack the strength to hold the weight of the head yet. That’s the reason for babies’ heads falling backwards when unsupported from behind.
This will only last for the first few months until the neck muscles are strong enough to keep the head up. The baby will eventually learn how to control the head and upper body with little-to-no support from you.
Is It Dangerous And Should I Be Worried?
Babies are far stronger than you think. They may seem fragile but they’re born into the world with tough survival skills. There’s even an old saying that goes “Babies are made to survive the mistakes their parents make”.
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Their small arms and legs will not break as easily as you think. It’s the same story with the head falling back unexpectedly. Don’t panic, thinking babies neck is broken or you have ‘damaged’ your baby.
A newborns’ body is made to adjust with those movements and they’ll get used to it in no time.
But you can’t be 100% sure that there is no harm or damage from the head falling back unsupported. The sudden shock might have some impact on the neck muscles and bones.
So always keep an eye on the little one for any unusual behaviour or crying with pain. Consult your family doctor as soon as possible if you’re not sure.
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The worst case scenario that can happen due to a sudden head flop is shaken baby syndrome. It is a condition that occurs when the baby is shaken too often and forcefully. The impact affects the brain and leads to serious health issues.
But do not be afraid since it is highly unlikely to happen because of a one time head flop.
How To Avoid A Baby’s Head Falling Back Unsupported?
Babies need their heads to be held with support to the neck every time they are picked up, until they are at least 4-months old.
Not only do they need support when being picked up but also when they’re being carried around. You must be careful about balancing baby’s head. The ideal way to do this is one hand supporting the head and neck while the other hand tucked under the spine and bum.
It might be a little bit difficult at first, but both you and baby will get used to it in no time.
Moreover, you have to be watchful when other people such as friends or family are holding baby. If they’re not familiar with little ones, sometimes they’ll forget to support the baby’s head.
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They are unlikely to do it intentionally, but there’s the chance of an unexpected backwards head fall if someone hasn’t held a baby before or for a while. Therefore, it is always better to remind them to carry the baby properly and hold their head with one hand.
Even in the most experienced and careful hands babies can make sudden movements and take an unsuspecting adult by surprise.
This is why you must always keep an eye on a baby’s surroundings and watch what what baby is up to. They might lean backwards suddenly while you are carrying them and will not give you even the slightest chance to react.
You might be used to them being fairly stationary and think it’s ok to rest them on bed or sofa or knee only for them to choose that day to roll over for the first time. These types of falls and knocks can cause serious injury and baby will always need checking by a medical professional as injury is not always obvious.
If you are a new parent it’s important that you look after yourself both physically and mentally. Babies are tiring and it can be an emotional time. don’t be embarrassed to ask for support from family or friends or a medical professional if you have finding it difficult.
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Talking can help and people are often very willing to support. Also, remember that it does end, sleepless nights and crying don’t last forever.
If you need a rest its ok to put your baby if their crib put on some white noise or soothing music and take a break. If you are calm you will be in a better place to sooth your baby. So make sure that you are in a good physical and mental condition, or else you might be putting the baby in danger.
If you are worried that you might not be coping well with the pressures of parenting, talk to a health care provider and ask for help.
The Basics
Baby’s head falling backwards when unsupported is common among babies in early infant hood due to their underdeveloped muscles. It’s most unlikely that it would causes any harm but if you are seeing any pain or abnormal signs, take baby to a doctor or a clinic as soon as possible.
Following correct methods to carry and hold the baby will make sure that your little one’s head won’t fall back unsupported. Don’t be afraid to remind other people to support your baby’s head.
Look after yourself and short take breaks whilst looking after baby particularly if you are on your own and baby is crying a lot, your health is important so you can be a good parent.
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