Emilia was born 5 weeks premature after a difficult pregnancy and my waters leaking from 28weeks, the lack of amniotic fluid caused torticollis (preferential headturn) which then lead to plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome). We have spoken to our gp and tried repositioning and a flat head pillow to try and help but unfortunately these methods have not worked and helmets are not currently something the NHS fund so we are now in contact with technology in motion and hoping to get a helmet made.

If Emilia's head is not corrected it can lead to Practical difficulties in sport and everyday life. We may not be able to get appropriate safety equiptment for activities such as riding a bike. This is because most types of helmets and headgear are manufactured based on a ‘normal’ head shape.

If the deformity is severe and there is significant misalignment of the ears, she could even face difficulties wearing glasses on a day to day basis if the need arose.

Aside from sporting activities, Emilia may also find it difficult to enter into some professions (such as construction, emergency services and the armed forces) if that career requires standard head protection.

Untreated plagiocephaly may also have a psychological impact later in life. A misshapen head brings a number of psychosocial concerns and emotional difficulties which a person may face throughout school and into later life. Research has shown that people with symmetrical features are considered more attractive than those with asymmetrical features. Even if we ignore this research and discourage these automatic responses, there may still be peers, teachers and other adults who could react negatively to an abnormality which can result in teasing and even bullying in some cases.

Thank you for taking time to read.