Cranial molding on neonates in Ghana: mothers' perspective and their knowledge on potential harm to babies' brain

Traditional cranial molding is an ancient practice prevalent in Ghana. In this work, we aimed at assessing mothers'/caregivers' perspective and their knowledge on potential harm of cranial molding on neonates.

Two hundred and one (201) nursing mothers with babies aged 1-12 months were sampled in a cross-sectional study using questionnaires. We assessed the mothers'/caregivers' reasons for cranial molding, their perceived benefits of this practice, and their knowledge about the potential harm this practice pose to babies.

Sixty four percent (64%) of mothers confirmed they practice cranial molding on their babies either on their own or through the assistance of a caretaker. However, 72% of all mothers/caregivers did not know this practice has the potential to harm the baby in any way. Mothers'/caregivers' reasons for this practice included the following: to achieve a more "beautiful" head shape, hasten the healing of the fontanelle, and limit head growth. There was a significant association between the mothers'/caregivers' level of education and the practice of cranial molding (p value < 0.05). However, there was no association between head symmetry and cranial molding (p value > 0.05).

Majority of mothers/caregivers were actively engaged in cranial molding on neonates but remain ignorant about the potential harm this practice could have on their babies. Mothers/caregivers therefore need to be educated about the potential harm posed by traditional cranial molding on neonates.