Why Head Circumference Is Measured in Newborns
An Important Part of Routine Care
Measuring a newborn’s head circumference is one of the most basic, yet most important, routines performed in maternity wards, delivery rooms, and pediatric units. It provides early and valuable information about a child’s neurological development and is used worldwide as a standard metric in newborn care.
This measurement is not limited to hospital settings, it also plays a key role in child healthcare services, where child health centers (BVC in Sweden) regularly monitor a child’s growth and development.
In summary, head circumference measurement is a routine that spans across maternity care, neonatal care, and child healthcare, a continuous thread in the chain of care for newborns.
A Brief History: From Observation to Standard Practice
Observing head size in newborns has a long tradition, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that measurements began to be documented more systematically, particularly in anatomy and anthropology. In pediatric medicine, head circumference started being used as a diagnostic tool in the early 20th century.
When child healthcare services expanded between the 1950s and 1970s, particularly in Sweden, head circumference measurement became a standard part of routine checkups, alongside weight and length. It was during this period that growth charts were developed, and head measurements took on a central role in monitoring early childhood development.
Today, head circumference measurement is a well-established global standard in neonatal and pediatric care.
Head Circumference, An Indicator of Brain Growth
During the first year of life, the brain grows rapidly, so does the head. Measuring the circumference of a newborn’s head provides a direct insight into brain development. Regular measurements make it possible to track growth patterns and detect any irregularities at an early stage.
Irregularities may indicate:
- Hydrocephalus (accumulation of fluid in the brain)
- Microcephaly (abnormally small head)
- Macrocephaly (abnormally large head)
- Conditions affecting skull or brain development
Early detection enables timely investigation, treatment, and follow-up, something that can be crucial for the child’s long-term health.
Disposable Paper Measuring Tapes, Hygienic and Practical
To ensure accurate and safe measurements, Cetro Medical offers disposable paper measuring tapes, specially designed for use in maternity and neonatal care settings.
Our measuring tapes are:
- Single-use – for high hygiene standards and reduced risk of infection
- Made from soft, flexible paper – gentle on sensitive skin
- Clearly marked – for quick and accurate reading
An Essential Part of Neonatal Care
Measuring head circumference is not just a routine, it’s an essential part of giving every newborn the best possible start in life. With the right tools, the work becomes both safer and more efficient.
At Cetro Medical, you’ll find reliable, hygienic, and user-friendly solutions for neonatal measurements.
Our products are used daily in maternity wards, delivery rooms, and pediatric clinics all across Sweden.
Check it out here: https://cetromedical.se/produkt/huvudmatband-engangs/