Disease

Newborn Umbilical Cord Care

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The process of the umbilical cord falling off in newborns can be fast or slow depending on each baby's constitution, health, and care. Keeping the belly button clean right from birth helps reduce the risk of infection.

1. Before the Umbilical Cord Falls Off

Cleaning the Umbilical Area

After birth, the umbilical cord is clamped to keep the stump clean. If the cord clamp is loose or falls off, parents should clean the baby's umbilical area at least once a day with a soft cloth, wiping gently.

Bathing Your Baby

Your baby can still bathe normally, as long as the umbilical stump is not soaked in water for a long time. If the cord gets wet, pat it dry immediately. If it gets soiled with stool, you can gently wash it with clean water or saline and then pat it dry.

Clothing and Diapering

You should fold the diaper edge below the belly button to keep the umbilical stump dry and airy. Clothes should be loose and soft to avoid rubbing against the cord.

Letting the Cord Fall Off Naturally

If the cord is slow to fall off, do not pull or interfere with the stump. After it falls off, the umbilical area may be slightly red or ooze a little blood—this is usually normal and will heal gradually.

What to Avoid

Do not bandage the cord with regular gauze, do not touch or poke it often, and do not apply herbal remedies or leaves to the cord, as this can easily cause an infection.

2. After the Umbilical Cord Falls Off

The umbilical cord usually falls off within 1–2 weeks. Afterward, the base of the belly button may still be slightly red or leak a bit of dark blood.

If bleeding persists for more than 2 weeks or if there are any unusual signs, you should take your baby for a check-up.

3. Signs of Umbilical Cord Infection

Take your baby to the hospital immediately if you notice any of the following signs:

  • Fever

  • Foul-smelling umbilical cord

  • Pus or yellow discharge

  • Red, swollen, or tender skin around the belly button

  • The baby cries when the umbilical cord is touched

  • Heavy bleeding from the cord

The most important thing is to keep the umbilical cord clean, dry, and airy so that it falls off naturally and heals well.

Reference: https://www.vinmec.com/vie/bai-viet/cach-cham-soc-ron-cho-tre-so-sinh-vi