A temporary swelling of the soft parts of the head of a newly born infant that occurs during birth, due to compression by the muscles of the neck of the womb.
Usually shortened by obstetricians to ‘caput’, this is the temporary swelling which is sometimes found on the head of the newborn infant. It is due to oedema in and around the scalp, caused by pressure on the head as the child is born. It is of no significance and quickly disappears spontaneously.
Diffuse edema of the fetal scalp that crosses the suture lines. Head compression against the cervix impedes venous return, forcing serum into the interstitial tissues. The swelling reabsorbs within 1 to 3 days.
A swollen area on a baby’s skull caused by pressure during the birthing process. Typically, the majority of this swelling subsides within 24 hours, and it usually resolves completely within the first week after birth.