Stork Bites: What Parents Need to Know About These Common Birthmarks
If you’re a new parent, it’s almost a guarantee that at some point you’ll find yourself examining your newborn’s skin for all sorts of marks and spots—whether they’re birthmarks, bruises, or something else entirely. One of the most common and least concerning types of marks you’ll likely encounter is the stork bite. You may have heard the term before, or perhaps it’s something that’s been pointed out by a nurse, a doctor, or even a family member. But what exactly is a stork bite? And should you be worried about it?
The good news is that stork bites are completely harmless, and in most cases, they’re nothing to stress over. In fact, almost all newborns have some form of it. But, like most things baby-related, knowing the details can help you feel more confident and informed as you navigate the early days of parenthood.
What Exactly Is a Stork Bite?
A stork bite (also known as a salmon patch) is a type of birthmark that appears on a newborn’s skin, typically on the back of the neck or the upper eyelids. It’s made up of a cluster of tiny blood vessels, also known as capillaries, which have dilated or expanded. These marks are flat and can be pink, red, or even purple in color.
In medical terms, a stork bite falls under the umbrella of nevus simplex—a category of birthmarks caused by the presence of dilated blood vessels. The name “stork bite” comes from an old myth suggesting that babies were delivered by storks, with the mark being caused by the bird’s beak or claws when it “picked up” the baby. Of course, we know this is just a fun story, but it’s where the name stuck.
Why Do Stork Bites Happen?
Stork bites are the result of blood vessels that are still developing under your baby’s skin. During pregnancy, these vessels are in the process of stretching and adjusting as the baby grows. When the blood vessels stretch, it causes more blood to flow to certain areas, resulting in the visible pinkish or reddish mark you see.
It’s important to know that these marks are not painful and they don’t indicate any underlying health problems. It’s just a part of how your baby’s body is adjusting after birth, and there’s nothing you can—or need—to do about it. In fact, stork bites are so common that nearly 80% of babies are born with some form of salmon patch.
Where Can Stork Bites Appear?
While stork bites can show up anywhere on your baby’s body, they most often appear in two places:
- On the back of the neck (also known as the “nuchal” area).
- On the face—typically between the eyebrows, on the eyelids, or on the forehead.
If the birthmark is on your baby’s face, it’s sometimes referred to as an angel kiss. This mark is just another type of salmon patch but typically fades more quickly—often by the time your baby is 18 months old.
“In every child who is born, under no matter what circumstances, and of no matter what parents, the potentiality of human greatness is a prenatal fact.”
– Sheridan Tidy
When Do Stork Bites Go Away?
One of the most reassuring things about stork bites is that they usually fade over time. In fact, many will be barely noticeable by the time your baby is 1 or 2 years old, especially those on the face. However, stork bites on the back of the neck have a tendency to stick around longer, sometimes well into adulthood.
Some people might even still have their stork bite into their 30s or beyond. And yes, this can include some of us as adults—research suggests that up to 50% of adults still have a stork bite on their neck!
Are Stork Bites Harmful?
No, stork bites are completely harmless. These birthmarks don’t cause any pain, don’t interfere with your baby’s development, and are not linked to any health conditions. They are just a cosmetic feature of your baby’s skin as it adjusts to life outside the womb.
That said, it’s always good to keep an eye on any skin changes, just in case. But in the case of stork bites, there’s really nothing you need to worry about. The birthmark will fade and become less noticeable over time without any treatment.
A Note on the Research
While stork bites are generally harmless, there has been some research into potential connections with other conditions. For example, one study from 2020 found a possible link between stork bites and a condition called the Meyerson phenomenon, which is an eczema-like reaction that can circle around existing skin lesions. However, doctors don’t yet fully understand why this happens, and in most cases, it’s not a cause for concern.
Additionally, some research from 2018 has suggested there might be a link between stork bites on the back of the neck and alopecia areata, a type of patchy hair loss. However, experts caution that more studies are needed before making any firm conclusions. As of now, it’s safe to say that stork bites alone aren’t a sign of any health problems.
A Personal Story: My Daughter’s Stork Bites
When my daughter was born, she had a few distinct stork bites—on top of one eyelid, the middle of the opposite eyebrow, and a cluster on the back of her neck that went into her hairline. The mark on her eyelid was the darkest and sparked the most curiosity from family.
Over time, the spots on her face gradually faded and were completely gone by five months. Since stork bites can take up to a year to disappear, we’re still waiting to see if hers will last or fade. My niece still has her stork bites, as does my sister-in-law, so it’s possible my daughter’s could stay as well.
Having a daughter with multiple marks helped me realize how common stork bites are. It’s one of those little surprises that come with the joy of new parenthood. As you noticed my baby’s unique birthmarks, it was a sweet reminder that every little one is special in their own way!
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How to Care for Your Baby’s Stork Bite
Since stork bites are completely harmless and don’t require treatment, there’s nothing special you need to do. However, if you’re a parent who likes to be proactive, here are a few general tips for managing skin changes in newborns:
- Keep the skin clean and moisturized: Newborn skin can be sensitive, so it’s always a good idea to keep your baby’s skin clean and soft. Gently wash with a mild baby cleanser and use a fragrance-free moisturizer if needed.
- Monitor for any changes: While stork bites are harmless, it’s still important to keep an eye on your baby’s skin for any unusual changes or growths. If you notice something new or concerning, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician.
- Don’t worry about the mark: It’s normal to feel concerned about any marks or spots on your baby’s skin, but remember that stork bites are a common and natural part of your baby’s development. They don’t require treatment, and they usually fade on their own with time.
- Embrace the uniqueness: Every baby is different, and the appearance of stork bites is just another way your baby is special. It might not be the most glamorous feature, but it’s part of what makes them who they are. And as a parent, it’s okay to feel a little pride in the fact that your baby is uniquely theirs.
Final Thoughts
In the whirlwind of new parenthood, you might find yourself obsessing over every little detail, from diaper rashes to sleep patterns. When it comes to stork bites, though, there’s really no need for concern. These harmless, natural birthmarks are common among newborns, and they usually fade with time. So, instead of worrying, take a moment to appreciate the fact that your little one is growing, changing, and developing just as they should.
And remember—every parent has their own journey with these little marks. Some kids might have stork bites that disappear by their first birthday, while others might have them for years. Either way, your baby is perfect just as they are.
References
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21975-stork-bite
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/stork-bite
- https://signaturederm.com/services/salmon-patches-or-stork-bites/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/stork-bite#when-to-contact-a-doctor
- https://www.vbiny.org/blog/should-i-be-worried-about-a-stork-bite/
- https://www.dpcj.org/index.php/dpc/article/view/dermatol-pract-concept-articleid-dp1101a98
- https://journals.lww.com/ijpd/Fulltext/2019/20010/Meyerson_Phenomenon.17.aspx
- https://journals.lww.com/dermatologicsurgery/Citation/2015/11000/The_Development_of_Hypertrophy_in_Port_Wine.5.aspx
