APCP Head Turning Preference and Plagiocephaly (Head Flattening)

Head Turning Preference and Plagiocephaly (Head Flattening)

Information for Parents and Carers

What is plagiocephaly?

Plagiocephaly means flattening of the head in one area.
It happens when a baby’s soft skull rests against a flat surface in the same place for long periods.

Newborn babies do not always have a round head.
This is okay and usually improves within a few weeks.

If you notice a flat area on the back or side of your baby’s head, it may be due to them usually turning their head in one direction.  This is called a head‑turning preference and could be a sign of plagiocephaly.