Caput Succedaneum

Caput succedaneum is a soft swelling that can appear on the scalp of a newborn after delivery, due to pressure on the head during birth. It is generally a temporary and benign condition.

Frequent features: It is usually noticed as a soft, diffuse bulge in the area of the head that came out first during delivery; it can cross the lines of the skull and tends to decrease over the days.

When to pay attention? An evaluation by health care personnel is advisable if the swelling grows, changes color noticeably, or is accompanied by other signs in the baby.

Which specialist cares for it? The neonatologist and the pediatrician are the ones who monitor these findings in the newborn, and the pediatric surgeon or the pediatric nephrologist may intervene if the case warrants it. Raising your questions with the team caring for the baby helps to follow its progress with peace of mind.