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New parents often find themselves closely observing every detail of their newborn’s appearance, so it can be alarming to spot an unexpected pink or red mark on their baby’s skin shortly after birth. If you’ve noticed a pink discoloration on your baby’s eyelids, forehead, nose, or neck, don’t panic. This mark is likely a stork bite, which is completely harmless.
Despite the name, stork bites have nothing to do with actual storks; rather, they stem from old folklore. A stork bite is a type of birthmark commonly found on the back of a baby’s neck, which is where the myth suggests a stork might “nip” the newborn while delivering them (if only parenting were that simple!). According to Cleveland Clinic, 30 to 50 percent of newborns either have a stork bite at birth or develop one in the first few days, making it one of the most prevalent birthmarks.
What Exactly Is a Stork Bite?
Stork bites are easily recognizable: they are flat, pink marks that may darken when the baby cries or gets upset. This birthmark occurs when the blood vessels beneath the skin become enlarged. Importantly, stork bites are not caused by any birth trauma or pregnancy-related issues, so there’s no need for guilt on your part.
Most stork bites will fade or disappear as your child grows. If located on the back of the neck, it may be more permanent, but typically the child’s hair will cover it.
Differentiating Between Stork Bites, Port-Wine Stains, and Hemangiomas
Stork bites are scientifically referred to as nevus simplex, but they are also known as salmon patches or angel’s kisses. They are distinct from port-wine stains, which are more likely to be permanent and can appear in colors like pink, red, or purple. Port-wine stains do not change color when pressed and often darken over time as the child ages.
On the other hand, hemangiomas (or strawberry hemangiomas) appear bright red and are raised. These typically form shortly after birth and grow for several months before beginning to shrink. Like stork bites, many hemangiomas disappear by age nine.
If your child develops new skin marks, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician for peace of mind. Most birthmarks are benign, but a professional can help identify what you’re dealing with and whether it needs monitoring.
Are Angel Kisses the Same as Freckles?
No, angel kisses are not freckles. Freckles are spots of melanin that darken with sun exposure and typically develop after birth, while angel kisses are visible from birth and do not change with the sun.
How Long Do Stork Bites Last?
Generally, stork bites fade within the first year of life. While you might see the mark during moments of distress, it usually doesn’t persist into adulthood unless it’s on the neck, where it may remain less noticeable. If a stork bite doesn’t fade by the time your baby turns one, it’s worth mentioning to your pediatrician as it might be a different type of birthmark.
Stork bites are harmless and require no special treatment. They are merely a part of your baby’s journey as they grow, and time will take care of them.
What to Do If a Stork Bite Stays
While stork bites typically fade on their own, some may linger for years. If your child’s mark doesn’t seem to diminish, you might consider laser treatment, which can reduce its appearance or help it blend with the skin tone. This treatment is painless and usually requires multiple sessions. However, it’s advisable to wait until your child is older for such procedures.
Do Stork Bites Cause Discomfort?
Stork bites are not painful. They may look concerning, but they do not cause any discomfort or sensitivity. Sometimes, they may change color when the baby cries or gets too warm, but they remain non-irritating.
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Summary:
A stork bite is a common, harmless birthmark found on many newborns, characterized by a flat pink mark that may darken when the baby cries. While they typically fade within the first year, some may persist, particularly if located on the neck. They require no special treatment, and parents should consult their pediatrician if they have concerns about new skin marks.
Keyphrase: stork bite
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