As you prepare for the birth of your baby, you may be thinking about who will have the honor of cutting your baby’s umbilical cord after birth. But have you given much thought to what happens next? Read more about umbilical cord care, including how to keep it clean, signs of an infected umbilical cord, and things to look out for after detachment.
During pregnancy, your baby’s umbilical cord is crucial to his or her development. Your baby’s umbilical cord delivers the blood, oxygen and nutrients necessary for growth through its two arteries and a vein. It also removes waste products.1 At birth, the function of the umbilical cord is taken over by your baby’s ability to breathe independently and absorb nutrients through food. The umbilical cord is clamped to stop blood flow about an inch from your baby’s stomach.7 The rest of the umbilical cord is cut, leaving the umbilical cord stump. Since there are no nerves in the umbilical cord, this process is painless.1
Caring for the umbilical cord can prevent complications such as infection or accidental detachment leading to bleeding. After birth, the umbilical cord stump is moist, and if it is not properly cared for and allowed to dry naturally, it can become an ideal place for bacteria to grow and invade your baby’s body.7 An umbilical cord stump infection known as omphalitis can spread and become a serious medical emergency.6
Experts recommend against cleaning your baby’s umbilical cord with rubbing alcohol. Research studies have shown that this can irritate the surrounding skin and hinder the natural separation of the umbilical cord stump.2 This is believed to be because the alcohol can remove helpful bacteria that aid in the separation process.1
You should examine the skin around your baby’s umbilical cord stump daily. You may need to gently press down on your baby’s tummy and bend the cord to reveal the entire area. If you notice secretions, you can gently wipe them away with a damp cotton swab and allow the skin to air dry. Do not clean the area with alcohol unless directed to do so by your baby’s care provider.6 While routine cleaning is not necessary, if the cord stump becomes soiled by your baby’s pee or feces, the best method is to simply gently wash the drying cord stump with plain water and a washcloth and allow it to air dry.1 Umbilical cord stumps need to dry sufficiently before they can shed naturally.6 You should bathe your baby with a sponge until the umbilical cord falls off.1
When change her diaperRoll the front down before securing it to make sure the stub of the cable is not inside. This will keep the base of the cable dry.2
Shedding of the umbilical cord stump is a natural part of your baby’s development. Here are the stages of healing a newborn’s belly button:
- Your baby’s umbilical cord stump is initially pinched and appears thick and moist with a whitish-yellow or blue hue.6
- Within a day or two, the umbilical cord is dry enough that the cord clamp can be removed by a doctor. This is usually done before discharge if you are giving birth in a hospital.7
- Within a few days of birth, the umbilical cord stump shrinks and turns brown or gray.
- Over time, the color darkens and the umbilical cord stump shrinks further as it dries.6
- Complete separation typically takes one to three weeks.1
It may be tempting to remove a dangling cable when it comes loose, but it’s important to leave it alone and wait for it to fall off on its own. This helps prevent umbilical cord bleeding in newborns, which can occur if it is removed too early.2 If your baby’s umbilical cord has not fallen off on its own after three weeks, notify the doctor.4
When the time comes, you may one day be surprised that your baby’s umbilical cord stump has fallen off in the swaddle blanket. Take a close look at the belly button to make sure it is healing properly. If the umbilical cord falls off and appears sticky or yellow underneath, this is a normal and temporary part of healing. Minor umbilical cord bleeding is also normal; However, if the bleeding is active, that is, every time a drop of blood is wiped away, another appears, or you see a blood spot on the romper that is larger than 5 cm, this is abnormal. You should contact your baby’s care provider immediately.4.6
Some babies develop umbilical granuloma. This small red mass of scar-like tissue remains after the umbilical cord stump comes off.3 The granulomatous tissue produces a pale yellow or clear mucous discharge without other symptoms of infection. This usually resolves itself within a week. However, notify your baby’s doctor if the granuloma persists for more than a week.1 Untreated umbilical cord granulomas can grow larger and become a potential source of infection.6 Treatment for an umbilical granuloma usually involves applying silver nitrate, which cauterizes or burns the tissue. Because there are no nerves in this area, this process is painless for your baby.2
Inflammation of the umbilical cord (“omphalitis”) is rare, but it is important to differentiate between a normal umbilical cord and an infected umbilical cord. Signs of infection include a smelly umbilical cord, redness, swelling, or tender skin around your baby’s belly button.1 There may also be yellow discharge or bleeding. Yours too The baby may develop a fever of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, you don’t feel well enough to feed, have poor muscle tone, or feel floppy. Contact your doctor immediately if your baby experiences any of these symptoms.4
When caring for the umbilical cord, the umbilical cord stump must be kept out of the diaper and kept dry. It is important to examine the umbilical cord and surrounding skin daily for signs of infection and only take sponge baths until the umbilical cord has completely detached. If you have any concerns about bleeding or discharge afterwards, be sure to talk to your baby’s doctor.
Newborns are born with unique vulnerabilities that require special care and attention. Now that you know how to care for your baby’s umbilical cord stump, enjoy the time with your little one because this phase doesn’t last forever.
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