After cutting the newborn’s umbilical cord a small area remains in his belly. The cord dries and falls off in 1-2 weeks after birth. It’s important to keep it dry and clean. Basic care for a baby’s umbilical cord helps avoid infection and helps the stump to fall off and heal quickly.
Keeping the Cord Clean
Gently clean the cord and the surrounding area once daily or as needed during diaper changes or bathing
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Soak a cotton swap in mild soap and warm water. Squeeze the excess water out. Wipe gently around the navel the surrounding skin.
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Wipe away any wet, sticky, or dirty substances.
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Pat the area dry using a towel.
Usually, the stump falls off in 1-2 weeks. It can last longer. Keep cleaning at least once daily till it has completely healed.
Keeping the Cord Dry
Keeping the cord dry helps it to dry out and fall off faster.
Wearing the diapers under the navel. If it doesn’t work, try cutting out an area in the front of the diaper before putting it on your baby. This keeps it exposed to air and avoid the irritation that results from touching diaper contents like urine.
Knowing What to Expect
Usually, the stump appears worse than it really is. After birth, it appears white, shiny and damp. While it dries it turns to brown, grey or black. This is normal. It doesn’t get any worse as you keep it clean and dry.
The stump falls out after one or two weeks. It might fall before or after this period.
After the stump falls you might notice red, raw spot. It might secrete fluids tinged with blood. This is normal for two weeks after the stump falls. If It doesn’t dry and heal after that consult your baby’s doctor.
When to Seek A Doctor
call your baby’s doctor if you notice any of the following
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Pus and bad smell
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Redness tenderness around the navel
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Your Baby cries whenever you touch his navel or the surrounding skin.
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Fever
Compiled using information from the following source: WebMd