Cephalohematoma
Content reviewed against published AAP, NIH, Mayo Clinic guidelines
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If your baby has been diagnosed with or you suspect cephalohematoma, here is what the evidence says.
The short answer
Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between a skull bone and its periosteum (the membrane covering the bone), caused by pressure during delivery. It appears as a firm, raised bump on one side of the baby's head that does not cross suture lines. It is generally harmless and resolves on its own over weeks to months. It does not affect the brain, but the breakdown of blood can contribute to jaundice.
Key takeaways
- Cephalohematoma is a collection of blood between a skull bone and its periosteum (the membrane covering the bone), caused by pressure during delivery. It appears as a firm, raised bump on one side of the baby's head that does not cross suture lines. It is generally harmless and resolves on its own over weeks to months. It does not affect the brain, but the breakdown of blood can contribute to jaundice.
- Usually normal when: A firm, well-defined bump on one side of the head that appeared within the first day or two after birth
- Call your doctor if: The bump is rapidly growing, the baby is becoming pale, or the fontanelle is bulging, as these could indicate a more serious type of bleeding (subgaleal hemorrhage) that requires emergency medical attention
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
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By Age
What to expect by age
0-48 hours
A cephalohematoma may not be immediately obvious at birth because the bleeding accumulates slowly. It typically becomes noticeable within the first few hours to days. It presents as a firm, well-defined, raised area on one side of the head, most commonly over the parietal bone. Unlike caput succedaneum, a cephalohematoma does not cross suture lines and feels firmer. It occurs in about 1-2% of births and is more common after prolonged labor, assisted delivery (forceps or vacuum), or in larger babies. No treatment is needed in most cases.
2-7 days
The cephalohematoma may appear to grow slightly during the first few days as blood continues to accumulate, then stabilize. The bump may feel firm in the center and softer at the edges. As the blood begins to be reabsorbed, the edges may harden first, creating a crater-like feel with a soft center, which can be alarming but is normal. Doctors will monitor bilirubin levels because the breakdown of the collected blood can cause or worsen jaundice. Phototherapy may be needed if jaundice levels become elevated.
1-4 weeks
The cephalohematoma will gradually become firmer as the blood is reabsorbed and the area begins to calcify at the edges. This can make the bump feel like it has a hard rim, which is a normal part of resolution. Do not attempt to massage or press on the bump, as this will not speed healing and could cause harm. The bump should not be growing at this point. If it is getting larger, or if the skin over it becomes red or warm, contact your pediatrician.
1-3 months
Most cephalohematomas resolve completely within 2-3 months. Some may take longer, particularly larger ones. As the calcified rim remodels, the head shape returns to normal. In rare cases, a small calcified bump may persist for longer but will eventually smooth out as the skull grows. A cephalohematoma does not affect brain development or cause lasting harm. If the bump persists beyond 3 months without improvement, or if you notice any changes in your baby's head shape or development, mention it at a well-child visit.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- A firm, well-defined bump on one side of the head that appeared within the first day or two after birth
- The bump has a hardening rim with a softer center as it begins to resolve
- The bump is gradually getting smaller over weeks
- Your baby is feeding well, alert, and developing normally despite the cephalohematoma
- You want to confirm that a bump on your baby's head is a cephalohematoma and not something else
- The bump has not started to decrease in size after 4-6 weeks
- Your baby is developing jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) that may be related to the cephalohematoma
- The bump is rapidly growing, the baby is becoming pale, or the fontanelle is bulging, as these could indicate a more serious type of bleeding (subgaleal hemorrhage) that requires emergency medical attention
- The skin over the bump becomes red, warm, or drains fluid, or the baby develops a fever, as these could indicate an infected cephalohematoma requiring urgent treatment
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Cephalohematoma.
Things to mention
- You want to confirm that a bump on your baby's head is a cephalohematoma and not something else
- The bump has not started to decrease in size after 4-6 weeks
- Your baby is developing jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) that may be related to the cephalohematoma
Observations to share
- You want to confirm that a bump on your baby's head is a cephalohematoma and not something else
- The bump has not started to decrease in size after 4-6 weeks
- Your baby is developing jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) that may be related to the cephalohematoma
Urgent signs to report immediately
- The bump is rapidly growing, the baby is becoming pale, or the fontanelle is bulging, as these could indicate a more serious type of bleeding (subgaleal hemorrhage) that requires emergency medical attention
- The skin over the bump becomes red, warm, or drains fluid, or the baby develops a fever, as these could indicate an infected cephalohematoma requiring urgent treatment
My notes
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Frequently asked questions
Is cephalohematoma normal?
When should I call the doctor about cephalohematoma?
When is cephalohematoma normal?
What causes cephalohematoma?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about cephalohematoma?
Is cephalohematoma normal at 0-48 hours?
Is cephalohematoma normal at 2-7 days?
Should I go to the ER for cephalohematoma?
Does cephalohematoma go away on its own?
References
- [1]American Academy of Pediatrics. Birth Injuries. NeoReviews. AAP
- [2]MedlinePlus. Cephalohematoma. National Library of Medicine. NIH
- [3]Mayo Clinic. Birth Injury Overview. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Mayo Clinic
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Bottom line
Most cases of cephalohematoma are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if the bump is rapidly growing, the baby is becoming pale, or the fontanelle is bulging, as these could indicate a more serious type of bleeding (subgaleal hemorrhage) that requires emergency medical attention.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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