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If you’re a new parent, you’re likely spending a lot of time observing every little detail of your newborn’s appearance. So, spotting an unexpected pink or red mark on their skin—especially in the days or weeks following birth—can be quite alarming. If you’ve noticed a pink spot on your baby’s eyelids, forehead, nose, or neck, don’t panic. This is likely a stork bite, and it’s completely harmless.
Despite the name, stork bites have nothing to do with actual storks; rather, it’s rooted in folklore. This type of birthmark, commonly found on the back of a baby’s neck, is whimsically thought to be where a stork might have gently nipped your newborn as it delivered them to your home (if only parenting were that simple!). According to the Cleveland Clinic, 30 to 50 percent of newborns are born with or develop a stork bite within days of birth, making it one of the most prevalent birthmarks.
What Are Stork Bites and How Do They Appear?
Stork bites are easy to identify: they are flat, pink marks that often darken if your baby cries or becomes agitated. These marks occur due to the expansion of blood vessels beneath the skin. Importantly, they are not the result of any birth trauma or complications during pregnancy, so there’s no need for guilt.
Typically, a stork bite will fade or disappear completely over time. If it’s located on the back of the neck, it may be more permanent, but as your child grows, their hair will likely cover it.
How Do Stork Bites Differ from Other Marks?
Stork bites, also known as nevus simplex, salmon patches, or angel kisses, should not be confused with port-wine stains. Port-wine stains are a different type of birthmark that tend to be permanent. They can be pink, red, or purple and do not change color when pressed. Hemangiomas, or strawberry hemangiomas, are bright red, raised, and can grow in size. However, similar to stork bites, they usually fade away by the time a child reaches nine years old.
If you ever notice a new mark on your baby’s skin, it’s advisable to consult your pediatrician for peace of mind. While most birthmarks are benign and fade with time, it’s always wise to get a professional opinion to rule out any underlying issues.
Are Angel Kisses the Same as Freckles?
No, angel kisses are not the same as freckles. Freckles are spots of melanin that become darker with sun exposure, while angel kisses are visible at birth and do not develop due to sun exposure.
How Long Will Stork Bites Last?
Most stork bites fade within the first year of life. While you might still see the mark during moments of excitement or distress, it typically won’t remain long-term unless it’s on the neck. If a stork bite persists beyond a year, it’s a good idea to discuss it with your pediatrician, as it may indicate a different type of birthmark.
Stork bites are harmless and require no treatment. They are simply part of your baby’s unique developmental journey.
Can Stork Bites Be Removed?
Stork bites usually fade on their own, but if they linger, laser treatment can help reduce their appearance. This painless process targets the blood vessels and may require multiple sessions. However, such treatment should only be considered when the child is older.
Do Stork Bites Cause Pain?
Stork bites are not painful. They may look concerning, but they do not cause discomfort or sensitivity. Sometimes, when a baby cries or gets warm, the mark may change color, but it is not irritating to them.
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In summary, stork bites are common, harmless birthmarks that typically fade over time. If you have concerns about your baby’s skin marks, consulting your pediatrician is always a good move.