Umbilical cord care can be very intimidating for a new parent. The funny color, smell, and texture are unique and strange. Your perfect little baby will have this cord attached for about two weeks so you have to face your fears. The important thing to remember is that usually the cord will fall off naturally without complications.
Initially the cord will be clamped by your obstetrician or midwife. Usually it is a couple of centimeters from the baby’s belly. The cord is grey-blue and wet at the beginning. Within a couple of days the cord may turn yellow, green and eventually black. It starts to dry and shrivel up and begins to detach from your baby’s abdomen. If you gently move it, you may see blood and yellow liquid. This is natural and normal. If there is a lot of oozing, you may need to see your pediatrician. She may apply a small amount of silver nitrate to the cord to help it dry.
While the cord is attached you will have to do a few things differently. Folding down the front of the diaper will help keep the cord from getting irritated. It is better to clean your new baby with a wash cloth, but if the cord does get wet just dry it gently with a towel. If the cord gets soiled, gently wash it with soap and water and then dry it. A blow dryer on a cool and low setting will help dry the cord quickly. Alcohol is not recommended since it can delay healing and irritate the surrounding skin. Keeping your new baby dressed in a t-shirt or loose onesie is better to let the cord breathe. Do not use a bandage or wrap the cord tightly.
If you notice the belly button looks “big” or it protrudes out, it may be a sign of an umbilical hernia. This is caused by the abdominal muscles not completely fusing. It will often be gone by your child’s first birthday. Your pediatrician needs to evaluate it to determine if any treatment is necessary.
Caring for Your Newborn's Belly Button
Nov 16, 2010 | By
