Before birth, the umbilical cord provided an infant with nutrients from the mother. At birth, the cord is cut and a stump remains at the baby's navel until it falls off. This typically takes between two and three weeks. At the hospital, a coating of antiseptic solution may be applied to the stump to prevent infection. After that, the main form of care is keeping the stump dry and free of irritation. A dry stump is often saved as a keepsake after it falls off.
Step 1
Keep the newborn's diaper away from the stump. Some diapers have a special cutout so the edge of the diaper doesn't rub the stump. Other diapers can be folded down and clothing can be worn loosely around the belly.
Step 2
Cleanse around the stump with a soft cloth, cotton ball or swab with warm water. Soap should be used sparingly unless fecal matter has traveled near the area. Alcohol should only be used under the advice of a health care provider, suggests PeaceHealth.org. It is not needed for drying the stump, as was once thought.
Step 3
Give the baby sponge baths in a small amount of water until the stump has fallen off. As long as the diapered area is given plenty of attention, a weekly bath is sufficient for a newborn.
Step 4
Retrieve the stump once it falls off. Let it sit in a well-insulated place to dry completely, which can take two to six days. Don't leave it near water or other elements that may damage it.
Step 5
Wrap the cord stump in a soft cloth or place it in a small plastic bag for storage.
Tips and Warnings
- Spray or paint the stump with a clear lacquer if desired. This is especially helpful for brittle cord stumps.
- Report any bleeding, oozing of pus or foul odor near the cord stump to a doctor. These are potential signs of an infection. Avoid putting anything on the stump to help it dry unless directed by a healthcare provider. Don't pull the stump for any reason.
Things You'll Need
- Soft cloth
- Gentle baby soap
- Towel
- Cotton balls and swabs
- Plastic bag or soft cloth for storage
