Research on the practice of massaging the head of a baby with hot water and ointments in Ghana. By Dzamesi Yael (Ph.D. in Science Education)
Hot water massage to the heads of babies in Ghana.
About us.
This website details the research done on the harmful effects of the Ghanaian custom of massaging the head of a newborn baby. During the daily bath of a baby, the head of a newborn baby is massaged with hot water. After the bath, an ointment is rubbed on his or her scalp.
This practice exists not only in Ghana but in other African countries, such as Nigeria and Burkina Faso. It is done with the main intention of closing the soft spots in the head of a baby. The soft spots are viewed as defects that need to be treated.
These soft spots, however, are natural. They gradually close by themselves as part of the natural development and growth of the child. For further understanding of the nature of the soft spots in the head of a baby see "The head of a baby" page.
The secondary reason for this custom is to mold the head of the baby to the desirable shape. However, this reason is not the initial cause of this custom, see "The traditional knowledge" page.
This research was done by observing a single bath of several different babies and observing the pupils of Creative Foundation School (2 to 7 years old pupils), that was established in 2011 by Yael Dzamesi, who designed and managed the curriculum and the school. The outcome of the research indicates a high possibility that this practice is harmful since it impairs the brain development and the learning capabilities of the children.
This website was setup on Oct 24, 2021, with the aim of explaining the Ghanaian custom and providing crucial information to the public on its harmful effects. In addition, we aim to use this platform to appeal for funds to design and execute educational programs and distribute pamphlets to mothers and health professionals in order to bring an end to this practice.
To learn more about our mission and project and how you can get involved and help, please see "Our work" page.
The research was conducted by Dr. Dzamesi Yael. (Ph.D.) with the help of the following:
Addo J. - associate field research.
Prof. (Md) Silverberg D.- medical editor.
Dzamesi E. - editor.
Dr. (Md) Srofenyoh E. K. - backup from Accra Hospital.
Hon. Dzamesi Kofi. - Financier.