Umbilical Cord Care
admin on September 5th, 2008
After having your baby, you must take care of their umbilical cord stump until it falls away. Always make sure you keep it clean and dry. Within the first month the stump will fall off, thus revealing your baby’s belly button. Their belly button may bleed a little after the stump falls away.
Signs to Watch For: If your baby’s umbilical cord starts to produce a smell, becomes red or sore, bleeds too much, or refuses to fall off within a month; contact your physician.
Keeping Umbilical Cord Clean
Clean your baby’s umbilical cord at least once a day and as needed during diaper changes or baths.
- Soak a cotton swab in warm water and mild soap. Squeeze out any excess water from the swab. Gently wipe around the sides of the stump and surrounding skin. You can also use rubbing alcohol instead of warm water or soap.
- Wipe away any wet, sticky, or dirty substances.
- Gently pat dry the area with a soft cloth.
Note: Continue these steps even after the stump falls off, until navel is fully healed.
