Plagiocephaly: Causes, Impact on Breastfeeding, and Solutions

The learner will be able to:

• Define plagiocephaly.
• List the signs and symptoms of plagiocephaly in infants.
• Discuss the impact of plagiocephaly on breastfeeding.
• Articulate a structural assessment process for plagiocephaly.

• Plagiocephaly defined.
• Review the causes and incidence of plagiocephaly.
• Infant feeding deficits caused by plagiocephaly.
• Assessing a baby for plagiocephaly: postural, range of motion, feeding.
• Treatment strategies.
• Strategies for supporting breastfeeding the baby with plagiocephaly.
• Referral: when, who, what.

Plagiocephaly, an abnormal asymmetrical molding of the cranial bones, causes multiple functional and developmental issues in infants, including compromised breastfeeding. Dr. Hazelbaker discusses plagiocephaly, its definition, causes, and impact on breastfeeding. She explains an easy-to-apply structural assessment process and suggests ways to facilitate breastfeeding as the condition is addressed therapeutically. She presents learners with multiple ways to mitigate or resolve plagiocephaly and how each strategy may impact breastfeeding in the short and long term.

The content in this module is re-evaluated every three years in accordance with ANCC criteria. This content will be re-evaluated and updated on or before March 30, 2023.