During pregnancy, the umbilical cord delivers the essential nutrients and oxygen required to help your baby grow. Once your little one is born, the cord is clamped and cut, leaving a stump that will eventually fall off and heal to form the belly button. Here’s what you need to know when caring for your newborn’s umbilical stump.
How long does the cord stay attached?
Your baby’s cord stump generally stays attached for 5 to 15 days. Over this time, the cord will shrink, dry out, darken and eventually fall off. Sometimes, the stump can ooze slightly and leave marks on your little one’s clothes, especially in the days before falling off.
Once the stump detaches, there will be a small wound remaining, which will heal and become the belly button. It’s important to let the stump fall off naturally. Even if it looks close to coming off, avoid pulling it, as this can prolong healing and cause scarring.
The belly button should heal completely within seven days. There may be minor bleeding or ooze at the stump site, which is normal and should stop quickly.
How do I care for the umbilical stump?
You can wash your baby’s cord stump as part of their bathing routine, but be sure to wash your hands first. You don’t need to use creams, soap or antiseptics, so stick to water and cotton pads. Once you’ve cleaned the area, dry it carefully and thoroughly by patting it with a towel or soft cloth.
When changing your baby, let the cord sit out of the nappy by folding it underneath the stump. This will allow the area to air-dry. If you notice some ooze at any point, you can wet a cotton pad with warm water to clean it gently. Remember to use a new bud each time you wipe the area.
What should I look out for?
While there may be minor oozing or bleeding, keep an eye on the area as it heals. If you notice any continuous discharge or stickiness, the stump may be infected, at which stage you should contact your doctor or child health nurse.
In some cases, the belly button doesn’t heal completely, and moist red tissue may form over the stump site, often with a lump present. This is called a ‘granuloma’. While it’s usually harmless, you should consult your doctor. You should also seek medical attention if the stump hasn’t fallen off after three weeks.