Question
Since birth, I have always held the newborn by supporting the back of their head with my hand. Will this affect the baby’s posterior fontanelle?
Answer
Based on your description, if you have been supporting the newborn’s back of the head with your hand since birth, generally speaking, this should not have a significant impact on the baby’s posterior fontanelle. Professional advice is as follows: The newborn’s brain is protected within the skull by cerebrospinal fluid and meninges, which offer good cushioning. Unless there are violent movements, it is generally unlikely to cause injury. Strictly speaking, it is best to support the back of the newborn’s head with the palm of your hand, especially when lifting or placing them down, as the palm is thicker and provides better protection.