A small section of umbilical cord remains attached to your newborn's belly button for about two weeks after birth, when it typically falls off on its own. The umbilical cord requires some minor care to prevent infection and ensure it falls off in a timely manner. Learn how to care for the cord and what to look for in case of infection in your newborn.
Cleaning
A clean umbilical cord is less likely to become infected. For the most part, you should leave the stump alone unless it becomes dirty. A leaky diaper sometimes results in urine or stools traveling up to the umbilical cord area. If this occurs, use soap and water to clean around the cord. Dry it when finished cleaning using an absorbent cloth. In the past, rubbing alcohol was the standard recommendation for cleaning and healing the cord, but the rubbing alcohol may extend the amount of time it takes for the cord to fall off, the American Pregnancy Association website warns.
Drying
A dry umbilical stump falls off faster than one that stays damp. Keep the area completely dry as much as possible. Sponge baths, for example enable you to better keep the umbilical cord dry. Wash around the area without getting the umbilical cord wet. Leave the cord exposed to the air when possible for additional help in drying out the stump. This allows the cord to fall off faster naturally.
Irritation
Any rubbing or irritation of the remaining umbilical cord can lead to bleeding from the belly button. Fold down your newborn's diaper so it doesn't rub against the cord. Choose loose-fitting clothes for his body upper body to cut down on rubbing against the umbilical stump. Never pull at the cord to help it come of sooner. Your baby is likely to bleed if you pull the cord off prematurely.
Problems
An infection or bleeding that won't stop are two possible problems as your baby's umbilical cord heals. Call your child's pediatrician immediately if you notice redness around the umbilical cord, particularly if it extends throughout the abdomen. Yellow pus draining from the area is another sign of potential infection, as is a smelly discharge from the area. Some minor bleeding is possible, but if your baby's belly button bleeds continuously and doesn't stop with pressure, call his pediatrician.
