Can placing a newborn in a lateral position prevent brain deformation?

Generally, if a newborn's skull has not yet fully ossified, lying on the side can usually help prevent brain deformation. However, if a newborn consistently remains lying on one specific side, this position typically cannot prevent brain deformation. Detailed analysis is as follows:

If a newborn's skull has not completely ossified and remains relatively soft, prolonged supine positioning might cause continuous pressure on the back of the head, leading to a flattened appearance at the back of the skull. When lying on the side, the contact area between the head and the mattress changes, distributing pressure more evenly and reducing prolonged pressure on any single part of the head, thereby decreasing the risk of brain deformation due to sustained pressure.

If a newborn consistently lies on one particular side, the head on that side may become deformed due to continuous pressure, resulting in an asymmetrical head shape. For example, consistently lying on the right side may flatten the right part of the head while the left part remains more prominent, similarly affecting the normal shape of the head.

Parents should regularly assist newborns in changing positions and turning over, varying the direction of the head. Additionally, newborns should sleep on a flat mattress with moderate firmness. Avoid using overly soft mattresses and thick, soft pillows to minimize the chance of pressure being exerted on the head.